Cell Phones Targeted by Legislators
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Texas legislators are again targeting drivers on cell phones in the latest state congressional session. Talking on a cell phone while driving continues to be a deadly problem in Texas. In the last four years, more than 13,000 traffic accidents and 126 deaths have been attributable to drivers talking on their cell phone, according to a recent article from the San Antonio Express News. Most of the proposed measures include prohibiting text messaging while driving, restricting phone use in a school zone, or requiring drivers to use hands-free devices.
Previous efforts to implement cell phone restrictions have generally not been successful. In 2005 a law was passed prohibiting newly licensed teenage drivers from using a cell phone during their first six months behind the wheel, but in 2007 several more restrictive laws never got beyond a legislative committee.
Rep. Jose Menendez, D-San Antonio is among the legislators trying to pass a new cell phone ban. He believes that the lobbying efforts of several cell phone companies have played a role in the inability of the legislature to pass cell phone reform, saying “the communications companies have really come out strongly against my bills in the past.” Cell phone companies have a significant presence in Austin, with AT&T’s political action committee contributing more than $1 million to Texas legislators, executives, and political parties. Verizon and Sprint Nextel PACs have similarly contributed $153,000 and $50,000 respectively.
I have previously blogged regarding the dangers involved in talking on the cell phone while driving. If you are injured in a traffic accident that was caused by talking on a cell phone, please contact me.