Cell Phone Usage Policy
Hard Fork Transportation Inc. is committed to ensuring the highest standards of safety, compliance, and professionalism while operating under our authority. The improper use of cell phones while driving presents significant risks to the driver, other motorists, pedestrians, and company operations. This policy establishes clear guidelines on cell phone usage for all Independent Contractor Drivers (ICDs) to prevent accidents, ensure compliance with federal and state laws, and maintain professional standards.
1. Compliance with FMCSA and DOT Regulations
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) strictly prohibits commercial motor vehicle (CMV) drivers from using handheld mobile devices while operating a CMV. All ICDs must comply with FMCSA and Department of Transportation (DOT) regulations, which state:
- ICDs are not permitted to hold, dial, or reach for a cell phone while driving.
- ICDs must use hands-free technology if they need to make or receive a call.
- ICDs may not text, read, or manually input information into a phone or electronic device while driving.
- ICDs must pull over to a safe location before using a cell phone for non-hands-free activities.
Violating FMCSA cell phone regulations may result in fines up to $2,750 per offense for the driver and $11,000 per offense for the company, in addition to potential CDL disqualification.
2. Prohibited Cell Phone Activities While Driving
To enhance safety and compliance, ICDs are strictly prohibited from engaging in the following activities while the vehicle is in motion:
- Talking on a handheld phone (without Bluetooth or a hands-free system).
- Texting, emailing, or messaging on any platform.
- Reading or watching videos on a mobile device.
- Browsing the internet or social media while operating a CMV.
- Taking photos or videos while driving.
- Using mobile apps that require manual input while driving.
- Dialing a phone number by hand (one-touch dialing via hands-free systems is allowed).
- Holding a phone in hand while making a call or using speakerphone.
3. Permitted Cell Phone Usage
ICDs may only use cell phones under the following conditions:
- With a hands-free device (Bluetooth headset, voice-activated system, or dashboard speakerphone).
- Only when it is safe to do so and does not interfere with driving attention.
- For emergency situations (e.g., reporting an accident, medical emergency, or hazardous road conditions).
- When the vehicle is legally parked in a safe, designated area.
4. Consequences for Violating the Cell Phone Usage Policy
Hard Fork Transportation Inc. enforces a strict zero-tolerance policy regarding cell phone violations. The following penalties apply to any ICD found violating this policy:
- First Offense – $2,500 fine and immediate termination of contract.
- Additional Legal Liability – If an ICD’s cell phone use leads to an accident, loss, injury, or damages, the ICD will be held fully liable for all legal, financial, and insurance-related consequences.
5. Driver Acknowledgment and Agreement
All ICDs must acknowledge that they have read, understood, and agreed to comply with this policy. Any ICD found violating these rules will not be eligible for warnings or second chances, as this policy is strictly enforced to ensure the safety of all road users.
Hard Fork Transportation Inc. reserves the right to monitor compliance through ELD logs, GPS tracking, and driver reports. Failure to adhere to this policy will result in immediate penalties, deductions from settlements, termination of contract, and possible legal action if negligence results in damages or loss.
By adhering to this policy, ICDs contribute to a safer driving environment while protecting their own safety, the safety of others, and the integrity of Hard Fork Transportation Inc.