This campaign, which is being enforced between April 10 and 15, encourages police to be aggressive about ticketing drivers who are using their mobile devices or texting while they’re on the road and behind the wheel. This would go for teens, young adults and adults; the measures focus on stopping distractions regardless of the vehicle, whether it’s a truck, commercial vehicle or passenger car.
It’s important to know that texting has been banned in 45 states in the United States in addition to in Puerto Rico, Guam, and the Virgin Islands. Doing so while driving is illegal, so if you’re struck by someone who is texting while driving a truck or other vehicle, he or she is likely breaking the law.
Interestingly, commercial trucking accidents have increased over the last several years, so in addition to distracted driving rules being redesigned, so are regulations on hours of service. While commercial drivers are not allowed to be on their phones or texting while driving, another serious problem they have is a lack of sleep and adequate rest. With regulations to help improve work conditions, it’s been suggested that the number of accidents that take place due to distractions and inadequate rest can be reduced, helping save lives.
Source: Heavy Duty Trucking, “NTSB Takes Aim at Commercial Trucking Safety, Distracted Driving,” Deborah Lockridge, accessed April. 15, 2015