Rockefeller applauds new ban on texting for commercial drivers

The Department of Transportation announced new rules to ban commercial truck and bus drivers from texting while driving and from using any handheld cellphone or other mobile deices that can take a driver's attention off the road.

Sen. Jay Rockefeller, chairman of the Senate Commerce Committee, applauded the action. In October, Rockefeller introduced the Distracted Driving Prevention Act that would give states incentives for curbing texting and talking while driving, particularly among teen drivers.

“Texting while driving is extremely dangerous, and we must do all we can to bring it to a stop," he said.  "Last week I also signed on to a resolution that would prohibit all Senate employees from engaging in this same risky behavior. Together, we can work to make these important safety improvements and save lives.”

In October, Rockefeller said people “are driving lethal weapons,” and sending text messages while doing so is “the grossest kind of negligence, yet it is part of our lives."
 
Rockefeller said more than 812,000 drivers are using their cell phones while behind the wheel at any given moment. In 2008, 5,800 people were killed due to distracted drivers.

Rockefeller also asked the FCC to evaluate technologies, such as hands-free systems for cellphones, to help reduce distractions behind the wheel.

Some companies already have texting bans in place for their employees who drive commercial vehicles.

But there are questions about how the ban will be enforced. The Transportation Department says it will work with cellphone companies for ideas. If commercial drivers are caught texting, the fine could be as high as $2,700.