A new federal law became effective Jan. 3 that makes it illegal for commercial vehicle drivers to use handheld cell phones while driving. This new law is estimated to affect millions of fleet drivers nationwide. This law was implemented as a means of keeping all drivers safe, and in the process may cut down on some workplace accidents as they relate to commercial vehicle drivers.
Following this new law, a Los Angeles steel and aluminum company has created a "distracted-driving policy" in an effort to decrease driver accidents. In addition, the company enacted the policy after it realized that it could be subject to potential liability when its drivers use cell phones on the road.
The Los Angeles-based company has more than 1,800 trucks in its commercial fleet. Under the new policy, company drivers are prohibited from using "any kind of electronic communication device while driving," which includes devices like cell phones, smart phones and CB radios. Unless the drivers are parked, they cannot use these devices. This company is not the only one concerned about the safety of their workers. Many other companies are developing policies of their own.
While this new federal law, and the policies which are subsequently being enacted by companies, will hopefully cut down on the number of workplace accidents of commercial vehicle drivers due to distracted driving, accidents can still happen. When such an accident occurs, the worker could be entitled to workers' comp.
For workers injured as a result of workplace accidents, including drivers who are injured on-the-job from distracted driving, California law requires their employers to provide workers' compensation insurance. Workers' compensation covers medical expenses, partial wages, permanent disability benefits and future medical expenses. Depending on the injuries, the worker may be entitled to additional benefits as well.
Source: USA Today, "Companies weigh the risks of distracted driving," Larry Copeland, April 15, 2012
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