According to the US Department of Transportation, there are 3 types of distracted driving as follows:

1. Visual: Taking eyes off the road

2. Manual: Taking hands of the wheel

3. Cognitive: Taking mind off of activity

The main reason that cell phone texting by truck drivers is so alarming is that it combines all 3 types of distractions. A  Research from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration demonstrates that drivers who text while driving take their eyes off the road almost 5 seconds out of every 6 an average. At 55 miles per hour, this means that the driver will travel the length of a football field (including the end zones), without looking at the road. Research shows that truck drivers are 20 times more likely to be involved in an accident if they are texting.

In 2009, the National Transportation Safety Board included a ban on commercial truck driver texting on their most wanted list of transportation safety improvements. They specifically requested that the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration prohibit cell phone use by commercial truck and bus drivers.

On March 31, 2010, The Department of Transportation announced its proposal to make its interim ban on texting while driving permanent for commercial truck drivers and bus drivers across the U.S. The ban applies to drivers of interstate commercial trucks and buses over 10,000 pounds and was first put into effect on an interim basis in January, 2010. If a  truck driver is caught texting while driving, he will now face up to $2,750 in fines.

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If you or a loved one have been injured in an accident involving a commercial truck or bus, please contact an experienced Truck Accident Attorney who can help you investigate and prove the cause of the accident and your injuries.