New Fines Up to $2,720 for Texting While Driving

All Teamster members who drive vehicles as part of their job need to know that a ban on texting while driving has gone into affect. 

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration issued a regulatory guidance (49 CFR Part 390.17) that prohibits commercial drivers from using electronic devices to prepare or review text messages while operating a commercial motor vehicle in interstate commerce.  The ban became affective January 27, 2010.

Drivers who are convicted of texting while driving a commercial motor vehicle may be subject to civil or criminal penalties of up to $2,720.  The Teamsters Safety and Health Department issued a memorandum on this topic, which is available for download.