Department of Transportation Sec. Ray LaHood will propose new restrictions on commercial drivers sending text messages on the job. The new plans will be outlined today at the summit on distracted driving attended by many different interest groups.
Mr. LaHood has been instrumental in increasing regulations banning text and cell phone use by commercial drivers. The problem is not limited to commercial drivers however the Department of Transportation regulates 18 wheelers and is in a position to lead on this issue.
The DOT is committed to fighting distracted driving which has emerged as one of the biggest safety issues of our times with the explosion of texting in recent years.
Many companies have set their own safety policies regarding cell phone use and texting while driving. Those companies are to be applauded for their safety efforts.
In an experimental enforcement of cell phone bans while driving, police in two cities issued almost 10,000 tickets total for drivers talking or texting while driving.
There has been much debate on the safety of cell phone use and texting in the car.
Competing interests have different ideas on the dangers associated with it and what to do about the problem. Obviously, cell phones have become ingrained into the American way of life and limiting their use is a tough sell.
I'm sure all of you will recall the last time a car was stuck in a green light in front of you and upon observation the driver was on the cell phone.
One of the organizations that has led the fight to tougher regulation of cell phone use while driving is FOCUS DRIVEN, I urge you to support that organization.
Greg Baumgartner is a Houston personal injury attorney and a founder of the Baumgartner law firm, which is dedicated to helping people who have been injured in accidents seek civil to justice. Contact theTexas personal injury law firm if you have questions regarding an injury claim.
