Texting and Driving Bans
Most likely in reaction to the recently released information regarding the dangers of texting while driving, the Austin City Council passed an ordinance forbidding texting and driving. According to the Austin-American Statesman:
Drivers will still be able to text when their vehicle is stopped. The ordinance will prohibit writing, sending or viewing electronic messages on a cell phone, BlackBerry, iPhone or any wireless communication device while driving. Electronic messages include text messages, e-mails, posts on social media sites such as Twitter and Facebook, and “a command or request to access an Internet site.”
The ordinance exempts placing a phone call, using a navigation system or a wireless device permanently installed in a vehicle and texting in emergency situations. It also exempts public safety personnel who use wireless devices while on duty. Drivers could still use a voice-activated mode on their wireless devices to send messages.
Violations will be Class C misdemeanors, which carry a fine of up to $500 and can be appealed in Municipal Court. The penalty could be increased if a driver is caught engaging in another dangerous driving behavior, such as speeding.
Other similar ordinances are in place across the country and more are under consideration. This month, the Obama Administration banned government workers from texting while driving. The State of Texas recently banned texting and driving while in school zones. Currently, 18 states and the District of Columbia ban text messaging for all drivers.
Considering the alarming statistics associated with the dangers of texting and driving, more bans on texting and driving are likely to be passed. A Virginia Tech Transportation Institute study found that when drivers text, their collision risk is 23 times greater than when not texting. If someone you know was injured or killed as the result of a texting while driving incident, encourage them to immediately contact a competent attorney for advice. It is extremely important to do this quickly to ensure that evidence is preserved, statements are taken, and the rights of all claimants are protected.
