Sample Law Allows Citation for Text Messaging While Driving

02/22/2010

It kills thousands of people each year - which might be why the U.S. Department of Transportation is proposing new legislation to reduce distracted driving.

A sample state bill would authorize law enforcement officials to stop and issue a citation for drivers who text message behind the wheel. The law, which was prepared by the National Highway Safety Administration, imitates previous legislation prohibiting federal employees from texting while operating a vehicle.

"Texting while driving, like talking on cell phones while driving, is an extremely dangerous and life-threatening practice," said Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood. "This language, which we created with a variety of safety organizations, is another powerful tool in our arsenal to help the states combat this serious threat."

First-time offenders would be subjected to a minimum $75 fine and action against driving privileges under the law. Subsequent or offenses resulting in injury or death would face greater penalties. Exemptions include texting to report an emergency, to navigate or to receive safety- or navigation-related messages.

Fifteen states ban text messaging while driving. A recent study by the Virginia Tech Transportation Institute showed that texting increases the likelihood of an accident by 23 percent. These accidents can increase a driver's auto insurance score, resulting in higher premiums.

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