Cell Phone Use and Texting While Driving

Employees are prohibited from using cellular phones (whether Company-issued or personally owned) for business purposes while driving, and from using any cellular phone for any purpose while driving for work-related purposes or while operating a Company-owned vehicle.

Employees should also be aware that Florida law prohibits texting while driving. Under Florida Statutes Section 316.305 (the Florida Ban on Texting While Driving Law), it is unlawful for a driver to operate a motor vehicle while manually typing, sending, or reading text-based communications, including text messages, emails, and instant messages. Texting while driving is a primary offense in Florida, meaning law enforcement may stop a driver solely for this violation.

In addition, Florida Statutes Section 316.306 prohibits the use of a handheld wireless communications device in designated school crossings, school zones, and active work zones. In those areas, wireless communications devices may only be used in a hands-free manner.

Employees who must take or place work-related calls while traveling are expected to safely pull over and stop the vehicle before doing so or to use a properly installed hands-free device where permitted by law. Compliance with all applicable traffic and distracted driving laws is required at all times. Violations of this policy or of applicable law may result in disciplinary action, up to and including discharge.