To combat this cause of death, the Occupational Health and Safety Administration (OSHA) has partnered with the Department of Transportation (DOT) to decrease distracted driving fatalities. The first focus of this partnership is on texting and driving.
To prevent texting and driving accidents, OSHA is calling on employers to prohibit any policy or practice that requires, or even encourages, employees to text and drive. In support of this initiative, OSHA is:
- Conducting an education program for employers with a special focus on texting and driving.
- Creating a website that includes a video message and that showcases effective model employer policies.
- Forming alliances with other organizations, such as the National Safety Council, to reach out to small employers.
- Making a special effort to reach out to young workers so that they understand the risks of distracted driving and the potential consequences of distracted driving.
- Investigating complaints that an employer requires texting and driving or makes texting and driving a practical necessity. If the allegations are found to be true, then OSHA will issue citations and penalties as appropriate.
What This Means for Georgia Workers
Georgia distracted driving law prohibits drivers, including employees, from texting and driving. OSHA's guidance provides further support for workers who refuse to text and drive.
If you have been hurt by an employee who was texting and driving, then you may have a cause of action against the driver and/or the driver's employer. For more information, please contact an Alpharetta car crash lawyer at 770.518.1133. An experienced Alpharetta accident attorney will review your case and advise you about your rights and potential recovery.