Ed Smith Blog

Driving in today’s society comes with many distractions. Electronics such as cell phones, navigation systems, advanced audio equipment, television screens, and more have taken over the attention of drivers.

As a result, automobile accidents due to distracted drivers have increased significantly. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration research, “nearly 6,000 people died in 2008 in crashes involving a distracted or inattentive driver, and more than half a million were injured”.

This statistic has brought many states to consider regulations regarding one of the main distractions- cell phones. Looking down to dial a number, becoming engrossed in a conversation, or even worse- texting a message while behind the wheel, all play a major role in creating an inattentive and distracted driver.

In hopes of preventing unnecessary automobile accidents from occurring, a number of states have enacted laws to prevent drivers from using hand held cell phones while operating a vehicle. Currently nineteen states have texting laws for drivers as well.

In 2009, more than 200 distracted driving bills were considered by State legislatures and the legislative activity is expected to remain strong in 2010. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has even developed a sample bill to aid states in creating a text banning law.

With many states adopting new cell phone laws, it is important to know your rights. Keep up to date with your own states regulations and be sure to research laws for other states that you might drive in.

Above all, stay safe. Do not put yourself in the position of becoming a distracted and inattentive driver. Using a cell phone while driving not only puts your life in danger but it puts everyone around you at risk too.

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