Do Truckers Still Use CB Radios? Current Use and Legal Considerations

TYPES OF COMMUNICATION TOOLS USED BY TRUCKERS:

While the popularity of Citizens Band (CB) radios has diminished in recent years due to the rise of more sophisticated communication technologies like smartphones, many truckers still rely on CB radios for their reliability and simplicity. In the past, particularly during the 1970s, CB radios were ubiquitous in the trucking industry, especially during the gasoline shortages, when truckers would use them to communicate about long gas lines and avoid speed traps. However, in modern times, the use of CB radios has declined, and today, their utility is more sporadic.

Historical Context

In the 1970s, CB radios were a popular tool for avoiding speed traps and coordinating convoys. Many truckers would use channel 19 to communicate about various issues, and it was not uncommon to find local volunteer groups active on this channel. These groups would provide assistance and information, a service that would later be replaced by online resources.

Current Use by Truckers

Today, the use of CB radios by truckers is far less common than in the 1970s. The general public perception of CB radios is often negative, often associated with characters like C.W. McCall in his song "Convoy." Despite this, some truckers still carry and use CB radios, particularly for long-distance trips or when they expect to be in remote areas with poor cell phone coverage. While traffic conditions can vary, CB radios can still provide early warnings about road conditions, such as traffic jams (referred to as 'brake checks') or accidents.

According to a trucker who has been in the industry for many years, "Even now, if I'm going on a long drive or entering the interstate, I might turn on the CB to see if anyone is warning about traffic. The reliability of a CB radio in these cases is still quite useful."

Legal Considerations

There are no specific federal laws that prohibit the use of CB radios while driving in the United States; however, drivers must still observe state laws concerning distracted driving. These laws vary widely and may restrict the use of any device that can distract the driver from their primary responsibility of operating the vehicle safely.

For instance, in many states, the use of handheld devices while driving is prohibited, and this includes CB radios if they are held and used by the driver. However, in-vehicle CB radios that can be operated using push-to-talk (PTT) buttons without holding the device are generally permissible.

It is essential for truckers to ensure that any device they use while driving, including CB radios, is used in a manner that does not distract them from their primary responsibility of driving safely. Truckers should always maintain a safe following distance, remain aware of their surroundings, and avoid engaging in any activities that might impede their ability to react quickly to changing road conditions.

CONCLUSION: CB radios are still used by some truckers, particularly for their reliability and ability to communicate in remote areas. Despite declining popularity, they remain a useful tool in the trucking industry, and truckers should be mindful of the laws regarding distracted driving when using such devices.