Heads up on distracted driving

Thursday, March 18, 2010

Heads up on distracted driving

In accordance with the April 20, 2009,release of Department of Defense Instruction 6055.4 DOD Traffic Safety Program:

Vehicle operators must comply withapplicable state, local and host-nation law regarding distractions while driving (e.g. using cell phones, text messaging).

Operators of government motor vehicles on or off installations must not use cell phones or other hand-held electronicdevices unless the vehicle is safely parked or they are using a hands-freedevice, except for receiving or placing calls in performance of duties from tactical or emergency vehicles. Use of hands free devices is also discouraged as this creates significant distractions from safe driving performance.

The wearing of any listening devices other than hearing aids, single ear-piece hands-free phone devices and motorcycles driver⁄passenger intercom devices where allowed by law while operating a motor vehicle on installations or when operating a GMV on or off installations is prohibited.

Distracting activities, such as hand-held and hands-free cell phones, eating, drinking and operating entertainment systems and global positioning systems, increase mishap potential. Drivers should safely park vehicles before completing tasks that distract attention from operating the vehicle. Accessory equipment should be mounted in a manner that doesn’t interfere with drivers.