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Texting truckers: Fire or not fire?

A truck driver involved in a fatal crash had sent and received almost 100 SMS's in less than three days – all while driving! Sadly, only 14% of employer believe truck drivers who text and and drive should be fired!

LONDON, England – A truck driver involved in a fatal crash had sent and received almost 100 texts from a friend in less than three days – all while driving, the UK's Road Haulage Association has reported.

The last message was received moments before his truck hit a car and killed its driver on the M62 in West Yorkshire, England. Ethen Roberts was sentenced to five years and three months' jail time after he admitted dangerous driving.

NOT A HAPPY RESULT

When investigators analysed Roberts' cellphone they found he had received a message from a friend 1min16 before his truck veered into the car.

The RHA conducted a survey among association members to review attitudes relating to the illegal use of a cellphone while driving. More than 200 from to transport/courier firms responded. The result was morally disappointing...

86% said they actively managed the issue of drivers who text and drive.
80% said that their drivers were given clear instructions about using a cellphone.
14% said using a cellphone while driving a truck should be a fireable offence.


According to the RHA, when members were asked if the use of a cellphone while driving was made clear to employees through official notices, more than a third of firms using agency drivers said they had no written policy. Some stated they wre reviewing their policies.

Many members commented that firing a driver was too severe for a first offence but that a formal warning would be issued.

Truck drivers prosecuted for using a cellphone while driving usually faced a three-week suspension of their driving licence, in addition to normal fixed penalties.

Do you think truck drivers caught texting and driving should be fired? Email us and we'll publish your thoughts on Wheels24.
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