New cell phone usage rules from the U.S. Department of Transportation levy large fines to drivers and their employers for talking while hauling heavy loads. So explained a trucking safety expert in a seminar presented by the National Association of Wastewater Transporters at the Pumper & Cleaner Environmental Expo International on Monday
Beginning in January, drivers caught talking on the cell phone while hauling a rig with a gross weight of 10,001 pounds or more are subject to a $2,750 fine for the first offense, while the driver’s employer can be fined $11,000, said Bob Kolvey Safety Director for the Motor Carrier Compliance & Safety Co. Drivers can also lose their CDL for 60 days after two infractions.
Many Pumper & Cleaner attendees at the seminar were surprised by the new DOT rules, and had many questions about other changes in driver rules. Kolvey’s talk was part of the Expo’s Education Day event.
