Sample Company Policy

The company wants to ensure the safety of its drivers and the motoring public. Distracted driving has a profound impact on your ability to safely operate a vehicle. The company strongly encourages drivers to not use mobile communication devices while driving. If it becomes absolutely necessary to make or receive a call while operating a commercial motor vehicle (CMV), mobile phone use (with either a personal or company-issued phone) by company employees shall be subject to the following restrictions:

Commercial Motor Vehicle Driver Phone Restrictions

1) The mobile communications device must have a hands-free method of operation. This can include, but is not limited to:

  • A bluetooth headset;
  • a vehicle-integrated communication system; or
  • a mobile hands-free speaker/microphone device.

2) Before commencing travel, the mobile phone must be configured so that it can receive and make a call either through voice activation or with the push of a single button.

3) The mobile phone must be located either on the driver or within easy reach (i.e. affixed to the dash, visor, driver's-side seat, etc.)

4) If the phone is going to be used as a GPS device to provide travel or mapping directions, it must be set up and running before commencing travel.

Direct Prohibitions from the Cell Phone Policy for CMV Drivers

Unless the driver pulls off the road and parks in a safe location, drivers are prohibited from:

  • Sending or reading text messages or photos;
  • Taking or viewing photos;
  • Manually dialing a phone number;
  • Looking up a contact number in the phone's directory;
  • Manipulating the GPS phone function in any way; or
  • Browsing the internet or using any other phone application beyond taking and receiving calls.

Commercial Motor Vehicle Driver Cell Phone Policy Exemptions

If a driver pulls off the road and parks in a safe location to engage in any of these mobile-phone related activities, they must note it in their travel log. In the case of making a phone call, the driver may commence driving again while they are still on the call as long as a hands-free device is used.

For additional advisement around your company’s distracted driving policy or training resources for your commercial drivers, contact HUB Risk Services today. You can also learn more about HUB’s commercial trucking insurance services here.