OOIDA Concerned About Texting Rule

Posted on May 5, 2010
Filed Under IN THE NEWS

There’s an interesting article in the online Landline magazine, regarding the proposed rulemaking instituting FMCSA’s texting ban. Apparently, the OOIDA is concerned because as they read the rulemaking, Qualcomm type devices which ping the driver while driving with written messages are acceptable, but smart phones and laptops, which do the same thing are not. Qualcomm type devices, of course, are primarily used by larger carriers, whereas the other devices are often used by very small carriers who cannot afford the Qualcomm or PeopleNet type solution, but still want to have some type of contact with their drivers. OOIDA President Jim Johnston said, “because the proposed ban covers those devices and not fleet management systems, this rule imposes a disparate burden on small business.”

_________________________

Eric Arnold is a Former Enforcement Agent with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, and a leading expert on USDOT compliance for small businesses. Do you have a question for Eric Arnold? Email him at eric@arnoldsafety.com.

Arnold Safety simplifies D.O.T. Compliance for commercial vehicle operators. Get Eric Arnold’s USDOT Compliance Guide, DVD, & Regulations at ArnoldSafety.Com.

Learn more about Arnold Safety compliance consulting services at ArnoldSafety.Com.