Transportation issues ban on texting for commercial drivers

Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood announced Tuesday that drivers of commercial vehicles will be prohibited from text messaging while driving. The new rule, which is being issued using existing authority, will go into effect immediately and is part of LaHood's ongoing efforts to bring attention to the dangers of texting while driving and other forms of distracted driving.

"Today we're sending a strong message: We don't merely expect you to share the road responsibly with other travelers, we require you to do so," LaHood said in prepared remarks for a news conference on the rule change.

A July study conducted by researchers at Virginia Tech University found that drivers who send text messages on a cell phone are about 23 times more likely to get into some type of crash or near-miss than non-distracted drivers, LaHood said. The new rule will apply to interstate truck drivers as well as commercial bus and van drivers who carry more than eight passengers. Violators may face criminal penalties or fines of up to $2,750.

LaHood said in the months ahead, he would propose "additional legal remedies and develop new tools that will help us work alongside the law enforcement community, safety advocates, researchers, and others, to find new ways to raise awareness and bring an end to the terrible dangers posed by distracted driving."