In November 2011, a new safety rule from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) and the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) was issued. The rule prohibits the use of handheld cell phones for interstate truckers and others including bus drivers and drivers carrying hazardous materials. Unlike some transportation safety rules issued by the government, this rule was supported by the American Trucking Associations and safety advocates. Learn why the regulations were changed, what might happen if a trucker uses a handheld cell phone and why you should call an Alpharetta car crash lawyer if you’ve been hurt in a truck wreck.
 
Why the Regulations Were Changed
 
The regulations were changed because of the thousands of people who are killed every year in distracted driving accidents. This measure, along with others passed by state governments, is meant to protect motorists from distracted driving accidents in Alpharetta and across the nation.

According to statistics released by the federal government, a trucker who is searching or reaching for his phone is three times as likely to be in a critical event, such as an accident. A trucker who is dialing a phone is six times as likely to be in a critical event, such as an accident. These regulations attempt to reduce that risk for truckers and the drivers with whom they share the road.
 
Penalties for Truckers Using a Handheld Cell Phone
 
The penalties for violating the new rules are steep. A trucker who is caught using a cell phone while driving for the first time may face a fine of $2,750. After two or more violations, the trucker may lose his license. A trucker’s employer may face a penalty of up to $11,000 per incident.
 
Why You May Need an Alpharetta Car Crash Lawyer After a Truck Accident
 
While these penalties are meant to discourage dangerous behavior, you will not be able to recover damages from the penalties imposed. Instead, you should contact an experienced Alpharetta truck accident lawyer who may be able to help you get the recovery that you deserve.

You can learn more about how to protect your potential recovery by reading our FREE book: 4 Common Mistakes That Will Ruin Your Georgia Car or Truck Claim and by calling an experienced Alpharetta car accident attorney at 1.770.518.1133.