February 04, 2012
/24-7PressRelease/ -- Using a Cellphone While Driving is Like Driving Drunk
Recently, the National Transportation Safety Board recommended a nationwide ban of cellphone use by vehicle drivers. This recommendation comes after years of investigation of the causes of automobile accidents and increasing limitations of cellphone use for certain drivers.
If every state adopts the recommendation, all non-emergency use of cellphones, text messaging devices and other portable electronics would be banned for operators of every vehicle on the road. This includes hands-free as well as hand-held usage.
The NTSB, an independent federal government agency, determines causes of nationwide transportation accidents and promotes safety for all modes of transportation -- automobile, aircraft, railway, pipeline and some watercraft. The board members are appointed by the President of the United States and confirmed by the U.S. Senate; when the NTSB makes a recommendation, the states and the political groups pay attention, although they may not follow the recommendation.
A major multi-vehicle accident in 2010 brought this issue to the forefront. A 19-year-old sent and received 11 text messages in the 11 minutes preceding an accident causing two fatalities and 38 injuries. These types of accidents are not uncommon in Louisiana and in other states. Various studies and analysis groups report the following:
-3,092 nationwide highway deaths due to distracted driving in 2010
-In Louisiana, traffic deaths attributed to cellphone use increased from six in 2005 to 16 in 2009
-81.9 percent of Louisiana drivers polled believe it is dangerous to use cell phones while driving
-Distracted driving is considered as dangerous as driving drunk
-35 states and Washington DC currently ban texting while driving
-Nine states and Washington DC currently require hands-free devices while driving
-Use of hands-free devices do not make drivers less distracted
Although there is no requirement that each state completely ban cellphones, the federal government previously applied pressure regarding seatbelt use and legal drinking ages by withholding some sources of federal funding. There is a possibility that the recommendation by the NTSB will be treated similarly. In the meantime, drivers should be aware of the laws in their home state.
Louisiana Laws
-Hand-held cellphone use banned for drivers with learner or intermediate licenses
-All cellphone use banned for bus drivers and first year of licensure
-Text messaging banned for all drivers
It is easy to how a law change regarding cellphone use may potentially make a difference. We have all tightened our grip on the steering wheel when faced with an inattentive driver. You may have even been involved in an accident caused by one. If you or a loved one has been injured by a distracted driver, whether because of cellphone use or other distraction, seek the counsel of a lawyer experienced with automobile accident cases.
Article provided by Frischhertz & Associates LLC
Visit us at http://www.frischhertzlaw.com/
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