Drivers of commercial vehicles are now banned countrywide from texting while driving.

Secretary Ray LaHood from the U.S. Department of Transportation announced Tuesday that the ban would take effect immediately.

"We must understand that the highways are a work place for law enforcement, emergency personnel, construction workers and the professional truck driver," says Alan Caviness, the Safety Director with Houff Transfer Incorporated.

Houff Transfer Inc. has about 150 trucks and operates all over the Mid-Atlantic. Safety is a huge concern for the company.

"Many of the trucking companies have already had policies on texting and wireless devices. It doesn't change what we're doing, we already require hands free devices," says Caviness.

The company says it would love to see every state enact a law banning texting for all drivers.

The Department of Transportation says people can expect more laws in the near future targeting distracted driving.