Distracted Driving—What is It?
With technology so depended on today, it is hard for truckers to not touch their phones while driving.
Distracted driving is defined by the federal motor carrier safety administration (FMCSA) as the use of a mobile phone while operating a vehicle. Most people assume distracted driving refers just to texting while driving, but it actually encompasses a lot more than just texting.
Distracted driving can include reaching for a phone, texting, dialing, reading, or even holding a phone while driving. The FMCSA released a report that drivers who use their phone on the road are six times more likely to involved in an accident, which is why police take distracted driving very seriously. In fact, drivers can be fined up to $2,750 if pulled over for distracted driving and can be suspended from driving for multiple offenses.
While a long drive can be boring at times, truck drivers should avoid distracted driving because, not only does it endanger their own lives, but the lives of others, as well. There is no reason to hold your phone while driving with all of the hands free and Bluetooth accessories that are available for your smartphone. If you do want to use your phone to look up fuel stations or food, or to catch up on your text messages, simply pull over first!
Make sure to be careful and avoid distracted driving whenever you are on the road!