Are there any Federal laws regarding distractions in vehicles?
Generally, distraction laws fall under the jurisdiction of individual States. However, President Obama has issued an executive order prohibiting federal employees from texting while driving on government business or with government equipment. In addition, contractors conducting government business are prohibited from texting while conducting business on behalf of the government In addition, in January 2010, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration enacted an interim ban that prohibits commercial vehicle drivers from texting while behind the wheel. In March 2010, a proposed rule was announced that would make that ban stronger and more durable. Although not a law, DOT recently launched a national campaign to encourage the public to get involved in ending distracted driving. “Put It Down” focuses on the key messages that drivers can’t do two things at once, everyone has a personal responsibility to pay attention while behind the wheel, and the implementation of legislation and high
