PHMSA rule bans texting by hazmat drivers
Washington – Commercial motor vehicle drivers who operate vehicles containing hazardous materials will be prohibited from texting while driving, according to a final rule (.pdf file) from the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration.
In accordance with requirements adopted Sept. 27, 2010, by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, motor carriers also are prohibited from allowing drivers of covered motor vehicles to text message while driving.
PHMSA officials said the rulemaking will improve the health and safety of drivers on highways by reducing the prevalence of distracted driving-related crashes, fatalities and injuries involving CMV drivers.
The final rule goes into effect on March 30.
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