DOT Bans Texting By Commercial Drivers

The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) has issued a new rule that bans texting by interstate truckers and commercial bus drivers. The ban took effect immediately.

The National Solid Wastes Management Association (NSWMA) immediately applauded the prohibition. The association has long advocated for a national ban on texting while driving and supports legislation introduced by U.S. Sen. Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., that would prohibit all motorists from texting while driving.

“The solid waste industry applauds this action by the Department of Transportation,” said Bruce J. Parker, president and CEO of NSWMA, in a press release. “With a fleet of more than 130,000 trucks driving many miles each day to collect and manage America's solid waste, roadway safety is of paramount concern to our industry. Making texting illegal while driving a commercial vehicle is a sensible idea that will help protect garbage collectors and millions of other Americans who use our nation’s roads every day.”