U.S. House bill calls for ban on holding cell phones while driving
BY AARON M. KESSLER
DETROIT FREE PRESS WASHINGTON STAFF
Filed Under
Business
Auto news
WASHINGTON -- Motorists couldn't hold cell phones while driving, under legislation introduced Thursday in the U.S. House.
Rep. Carolyn McCarthy, D-N.Y., said the Safe Drivers Act of 2011 would direct the Department of Transportation to set a national standard prohibiting all drivers from holding mobile devices, except in certain emergencies.
"Driving while making a phone call, texting or using apps can be as dangerous as driving drunk, and much more common," McCarthy said. "With some basic common-sense rules that are already in place in some parts of the country, we can reduce injuries and save lives in America."
Devices that allow hands-free use of a cell phone would be permitted under the legislation. However, the legislation also directs DOT to study whether talking on the phone at all while driving poses dangers.
Within two years, the agency would be required to report its findings on what's known as "cognitive distraction," and possibly tighten restrictions on mobile devices used in vehicles even further. That could lead to broader restrictions on in-vehicle infotainment technologies -- which automakers are rushing to install. Some safety experts say they are too great a distraction.
McCarthy cited DOT figures that found at least 5,400 people died because of distracted driving in 2009.
According to the Governors Highway Safety Association, nine states now prohibit drivers from holding cell phones to place calls while driving, and 34 states ban text-messaging.
Contact Aaron Kessler: 202-906-8204 or akessler@freepress.com
