MoDOT develops policy banning employees from texting in company vehicles

Missouri Department of Transportation employees Johnny Aldridge, left, and Wayne Whitaker, right, work on repairing dips in the connection between bridges and highways on Highway P outside of Senath, Mo. Staff photo by Joshua Payne

The new policy reinforces the agency's commitment to safe travel, according to MoDOT representatives.

Effective November 1, texting will become prohibited by MoDOT employees while operating department vehicles and equipment, or personal vehicles when performing department business.

"We're sending a clear message that employee safety is a top priority," MoDOT Director Pete Rahn said. "MoDOT has great employees, but putting themselves and the traveling public at risk from texting while driving will not be tolerated."

"MoDOT wants to set a good example and show that safety is our top priority," MoDOT Community Relations Manager, Sally Oxenhandler, who works at the Sikeston, Mo., office, said. "MoDOT implemented the policy to keep workers and public safe on the job and to show the companies strong commitment to safety."

A Missouri State law is already in effect that prohibit individual 21 and under from texting while driving. MoDOT's police goes one step further, applying to all employees while operating vehicle or large equipment, according to MoDOT representatives.

The penalty for texting while driving will depend on the facts of the incident, or whether an employee has received prior disciplinary actions, the representatives added.