US bans texting while driving for federal employees

The US on Wednesday banned its four million federal employees from texting by mobile phones while driving to prevent accidents on the roads.

The US on Wednesday banned its four million federal employees from texting by mobile phones while driving to prevent accidents on the roads.

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"Every time we climb into the driver's seat, we all have a responsibility for keeping our roads safe by putting away cell phones and other distractions," said Transportation Secretary LaHood as Obama's executive order in this regard came into effect today.

Obama's Executive Order on distracted driving, dated October 1, prohibits more than four million federal employees from texting behind the wheel while working or while using government vehicles and communications devices.

The new law directs federal employees not to engage in text messaging while driving government-owned vehicles; when using electronic equipment supplied by the government while driving; or while driving privately owned vehicles when they’re on official government business.

The order also encourages federal contractors and others doing business with the government to adopt and enforce their own policies banning texting while driving on the job.

"I am proud that the federal government is leading by example, and encourage others to think about how they can set a safety example in their communities whether it’s through employee policies, safety awareness campaigns, or just making sure your teen driver knows the risks," LaHood said.