Cell phones are everywhere — but for commercial truck drivers, that constant connectivity can be deadly. While nearly everyone carries a smartphone, truckers must follow strict federal safety regulations for a reason: even a moment of distraction behind the wheel of an 80,000-pound rig can change lives forever.
When a truck driver uses a cell phone while driving, they aren’t just making a poor choice—they are likely violating federal law and putting everyone on the road at risk. Over the 24-month period ending November 28, 2025, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) cited at least 294 cell phone violations — the most serious category of unsafe driving infractions — among just the two largest trucking companies in the United States alone.
At Zehl & Associates, we’ve seen the consequences firsthand. Having represented thousands of truck accident victims, our undefeated truck accident attorneys know just how dangerous — and preventable — cell phone distraction is in large truck crashes. Our team has secured record-setting verdicts and settlements in distracted driving cases by holding negligent truck drivers and trucking companies fully accountable when they choose convenience over safety.
Below, we break down what the law says about cell phone use by truckers, why these rules exist, and how our trial-ready legal team fights for victims when distracted driving causes devastating injuries or worse.
Cell Phone Laws for Truck Drivers
Commercial trucking operations are typically governed by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). This includes setting the rules for cell phone usage for drivers of commercial motor vehicles (CMVs), including truckers. According to the FMCSA cell phone rules, a truck driver is prohibited from using a hand-held mobile phone while driving.
This rule prohibits all mobile device usage while operating a truck. Under the rule, using a mobile phone means:
- Holding a mobile phone with one or both hands to make a call
- Dialing a mobile phone by pressing more than one button
- Reaching for a mobile phone in a manner such that the driver is no longer in a seated driving position, restrained by a seatbelt
Studies conducted by the FMCSA have shown that drivers who use a mobile device are six times more likely to be involved in a safety-critical event than those who do not. These types of events include truck accidents, near-crashes, unintentional lane drifting, and other critical types of mistakes.
Texas Cell Phone Laws for All Drivers
Texas law prohibits cell phone usage for all drivers in certain situations. According to the law, all drivers in Texas are prohibited from:
- Sending or receiving electronic messages while driving
- Using handheld devices in school zones
Additionally, drivers with a learner’s permit are prohibited from using cell phones for their first six months of driving. Drivers under 18 are also prohibited from using handheld devices while driving.
You should also be aware that some local cities in Texas have banned cell phone usage for all drivers.
Exceptions to the Cell Phone Rules for Truckers
In emergency situations, truck drivers are allowed to use their cell phones. For example, if a truck driver needs to contact law enforcement or emergency services for their own safety or someone else’s, they can use their cell phone to do so.
However, this exception is for true emergencies only. Truck drivers must be very diligent in using their discretion about whether or not their usage of a cell phone qualifies for this exception.
Penalties for Violating Cell Phone Laws
Truckers who break the cell phone rules can face some stiff penalties. Commercial vehicle drivers who break the FMCSA rules can face fines of up to $2,750. Additionally, trucking companies that require or allow their drivers to use handheld devices can face fines of up to $11,000.
In addition to these large fines, a truck driver may face disqualification by the FMCSA. This means they would no longer be allowed to operate a commercial vehicle across state lines. Violations can also affect a carrier’s SMS or safety results.
How Can Truck Drivers Stay Connected?
Drivers who wish to stay connected while on the road should use hands-free devices. Bluetooth devices, such as headsets, are popular choices for truck drivers who spend long hours on the road. Even when using a hands-free solution, it is important that the driver maintain focus on the road to ensure safety.
Proving Cell Phone Use After an Accident
Texas is an at-fault state for car accidents, meaning the driver who caused the crash is legally responsible for resulting damages. Cell phone use can be a significant contributing factor in many accidents, particularly those involving commercial trucks.
However, proving that a driver was using a cell phone at the time of the collision is not always straightforward. Unless the truck driver admits to using a phone, this type of evidence is unlikely to be uncovered at the accident scene.
An Undefeated Houston Personal Injury Lawyer Can Help You Prove Truck Driver Negligence
Proving cell phone use after a truck accident often requires a detailed investigation and access to evidence that is not immediately available. A personal injury lawyer can take the necessary legal steps to uncover phone records, analyze carrier data, and build a strong case showing how distracted driving contributed to the crash.
If you have been hurt in a truck accident, contact Zehl & Associates for a free consultation and let us help you pursue compensation for your injuries.
We proudly serve Harris County, Midland County, and throughout the state of Texas. We are located in Houston and Midland and throughout the state of Texas:
Zehl & Associates Injury & Accident Lawyers – Houston
2700 Post Oak Blvd #1000, Houston, TX 77056
(888) 603-3636
Open 24 hours
Zehl & Associates Injury & Accident Lawyers – Midland
306 W Wall St Suite 701, Midland, TX 79701
(432) 220-0000
Open 24 hours