At ABCO Transportation, safe driving is our first priority. It may be tempting to use a phone, tablet or other handheld device while your vehicle is in motion. However, the potential for injury or death is never worth the risk. Be the safe driver your family and coworkers can rely on; don’t engage in distracted driving. The following contains some tips and facts from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) that delve smore into the perils of distracted driving.
What is the Main Problem with Distracted Driving?
- Drivers caught texting or using handheld mobile phones are subject to disqualifications, fines and even termination.
- CMV drivers dialing mobile phones were six times more likely to be involved in an accident.
- Fleet management systems used for dispatching through similar devices are allowed and don’t fall under the same FMCSA guidelines.
- FMCSA rules always apply, in addition to any additional laws from the state or locality in which you are driving.
- CMV data shows drivers who text while driving are 23 times more likely to involved in an accident.
- If you want access to a device of this type you will have to find a hands-free option which is accepted.
The Use of a Mobile Device as Defined by the FMCSA?
- Using at least one hand to hold a mobile phone to make a call
- Dialing a mobile phone by pressing more than a single button
- Reaching for a mobile phone that will put the driver out of a seated driving position restrained by the seat belt.
Currently, there aren’t specific rules and regulations related to other functions of similar devices such as using the camera and note-taking programs. But don’t think you can use that as an excuse as it’s the same result as just handling the device.
What are the Four Types of Distracted Driving?
Regulators divide distracted driving into four categories, all of which are applicable to CMV drivers. Individually, each can lead to injury or death, but two or more types observed in tandem exponentially increase the likelihood of a crash event. Learn to recognize the signs and take preventive action: The driver who knows about the potential for distraction is less likely to become distracted.
Auditory: Listening to music, sounds from navigation tools and even talking to an individual via a hands-free device can all cause issues, despite some of these actions intending to help the driver during transit. Loud noises occurring outside of the cab, particularly in large metropolitan areas, may also create distracting sounds.
Cognitive: This can be caused by a wide range of issues, all involving one’s mind becoming distracted in transit. Lack of sleep, heightened emotions, talking to passengers and daydreaming are just some of the many cognitive distractions that may impact commercial vehicle drivers.
Manual: These involve actions that take a driver’s hands off the wheel or lead to a less-than-attentive grip when steering. Reaching for items in the cab or fiddling with items on the driver’s person are the most common causes.
Visual: Any distraction that takes the driver’s eyesight off the road ahead, such as looking at a screen inside the vehicle or perusing areas off to the side of the road.
Additionally, some organizations limit this list to three main types of distractions which include cognitive, manual and visual diversions. Regardless, all categories present hazards whenever a vehicle is in motion. Maintaining awareness of how motorists become distracted is one of the best steps to avoid this dangerous habit.
The Use of a Mobile Device as Defined by FMCSA
- Using at least one hand to hold a mobile phone to make a call
- Dialing a mobile phone by pressing more than a single button
- Reaching for a mobile phone that will put the driver out of a seated driving position restrained by the seat belt.
Currently there aren’t specific rules and regulations related to other functions of similar devices such as using the camera and note-taking programs. But don’t think you can use that as an excuse as it’s the same result as just handling the device.
What Type of Penalties Are There?
- Drivers can be fined up to $2,750.
- If you are a repeat offender you can become disqualified or put out-of-service for up to 120 days.
- The driver’s employer can be fined up to $11,000 if they knowingly allow or require drivers to use handheld devices while driving.
- Safety Measurement System ratings are negatively affected due to violations by that company’s driver.
- Violations are considered serious traffic violations and penalties are taken from FCMSA guidelines.
Be aware of these guidelines and ensure you are following all the proper rules of the road. Don’t risk your livelihood or someone’s safety by using handheld devices and engaging in distracted driving.
Drive for ABCO
ABCO Transportation has career openings for company drivers and independent contractors. Applicants must be 21 years or older and have a current CDL Class A License. Preference will be given to individuals who also have at least one year of over-the-road (OTR) experience. Our employees enjoy competitive pay, full medical benefits, 401(k) with match, paid vacation and access to three exclusive company resorts. Apply today and start your career with ABCO Transportation!