Chrysler Slaps Texting-While-Driving Ban on Employees

A Detroit News report said the company is backing initiatives to ban texting while driving as well as a prohibition on hand-held mobile phone operation while driving.

“A driver’s primary responsibility is to be in control of their vehicle; texting while driving clearly interferes with that responsibility,” Steve Bartoli, Chrysler head of regulatory affairs, told the newspaper.

The automaker said it is also trying to serve as an example for the auto industry by pushing a safety initiative.

“The Chrysler Group values the safety and well-being of employees, customers and communities,” said Nancy Rae, executive vice president in charge of human resources, according to the news report. “As an automaker, we expect higher driving standards from our workforce and business partners as we design products and technology that bring greater levels of safety to our customers and their families.”