Should Cell Phones Be Banned in the Trucking Industry?

Technology today is advancing at an expedited rate. In the past, a truck driving job not only meant being away from your family for long periods of time, but not talking to them as well. Nowadays, however, almost every truck driver has a cell phone and is able to talk to their friends and family multiple times throughout the day. It is truly a blessing to have such technologies.

However, with this great ability comes a great responsibility. Along with the increase of drivers with cell phones, the number of automobile accidents is also increasing. Drivers today are becoming distracted by their cell phones and not paying enough attention to the road. In fact, because of the growing trend for drivers to use their cell phones while driving, the National Transportation Safety Board is currently trying to pass a law that would prohibit commercial drivers from using their cell phones while behind the wheel. This action was spurred by an accident that happened one year ago in Kentucky. In this accident, a truck driver was using his cell phone while driving on the freeway. He ended up crossing the median and drifting into the opposite lane where he collided with a passenger van. The accident resulted in 11 deaths, including the truck driver.

Such tragedies are heart breaking and unacceptable. Safety on the road needs to be the top priority of every driver on the road, commercial and residential alike. According to the NTSB, if banning cell phones on the road can save even one life, it is worth it.

"Distracted driving is becoming increasingly prevalent, exacerbating the danger we encounter daily on our roadways." said Safety board Chairman Deborah Hersman. "Changing behavior can start right now, for drivers of big rigs, but also for the rest of us. When you are at the wheel, driving safely should be your only focus."

Currently the ban proposed by the NTSB is being met with debating sides of acceptance and opposition. Some like the idea of a cell phone free road, while others are outraged at the very thought. The board has already banned texting in the transportation industry, creating fines up to $2,750. Distracted driving, especially in a 40 ton automobile, is extremely dangerous and the National Transportation Safety Board is dedicated to doing what they can to make the nation's highways safer.

To read more about the NTSB and read their report on the suggested cell phone ban, visit http://www.ntsb.gov/news/2011/110913.html. For employment opportunities with C.R. England, Inc. click here.