In an effort to bolster road safety, Missouri has implemented a new law prohibiting the use of handheld cell phones while driving. This hands-free law has paramount implications for all drivers in the state, but particularly for employers whose employees may be required to drive as part of their employment duties.
The regulatory development, outlined at length in the JD Supra report, enforces constraints on driver behaviour, including the prohibition of use of other handheld devices while on any public roadway or highway in Missouri.
For corporations operating in Missouri that have employees driving as part of their professional duties, there’s a need for an immediate response to this law. It is crucial that they inform workforce about this law and take appropriate steps to ensure compliance. This would involve both internal communication and potential restructure of driving protocols, extending to personal usage of mobiles during working hours on the road.
Preceding this law, some organizations may have been lenient or without clear policies on cell phone use while driving for work. However, with this new mandate, companies are advised to implement clear guidelines on mobile use during work hours, especially for those employees who are integral to driving-essential operations. Companies now face legal obligations towards ensuring employees are not using handheld devices whilst on the road for work-related purposes.
The law, put forth by Ogletree, Deakins, Nash, Smoak & Stewart, is expected to significantly influence both individual and corporate behaviors. Companies who are proactive in aligning their policies with this new regulation are likely to avoid potential legal implications and also further ground the safety of their employees.
Legal professionals, particularly those representing transportation, goods, delivery and logistics firms, will need to adapt swiftly to this new regulatory landscape. Swift and clear communication will be crucial to prevent any avoidable infringements and the subsequent legal consequences that may follow.