All drivers, especially commercial drivers, are familiar with the acronyms DUI or DWI – driving under the influence (DUI) and driving while intoxicated or impaired (DWI). But what about DWD?
This new acronym stands for driving while distracted (DWD) and it refers to behaviors that can be just as deadly as driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. For more background, check out my previous blog Driving While Distracted. The reason I am returning to this topic is because this week Ray LaHood, U.S. Transportation Secretary, said that the federal government is looking to ban text messaging and limit the use of mobile devices by drivers hauling hazardous materials. See the full story.
As non-asset-based 3PL, LMS caters to companies that ship hazardous materials; more than half of our business comes from chemical companies. As such, our transportation planners are required to be hazmat trained and certified. We are also a partner of the American Chemistry Council’s Responsible Care program, which entails a comprehensive system for safety and security management. We understand the impact chemicals can have on people and the environment and although we do not haul the materials ourselves, we have a responsibility to help ensure the safe transport of these fragile shipments.
Numerous accidents can be linked to drivers who were distracted by cell phone use. According to the DOT’s distracted driving Web site, using a cell phone while driving, regardless of whether it’s hand-held or hands-free, delays a driver’s reaction as much as having a blood alcohol concentration of .08 percent – the legal limit. Any respectable truck driver would never haul freight while under the influence of drugs or alcohol, yet countless drivers are engaging in equally harmful activities. Imagine a driver hauling chemical shipments while drunk; the potential consequences are unimaginable.
The proposed hazmat regulation supplements a rule the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) published on Tuesday that bans texting by interstate commercial drivers; it takes effect on Oct. 21. But the FMCSA does not have jurisdiction over hazmat drivers – these drivers are under the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration. This new proposal will ensure the no-texting rule applies to hazmat drivers as well.
As a 3PL owner, and a non-commercial driver who appreciates safe roadways, I continue to support the government’s efforts to fight distracted driving. I encourage everyone to add DWD to their transportation vernacular and remember: a DWD can be just as hazardous as a DUI or DWI. Drive safely.
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