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Home > Blogs > Ohio politics > Archives > 2009 > August > 04 > Entry
Senate President: Ban text messaging while driving
Senate President Bill Harris, R-Ashland, said on Tuesday, Aug. 4, that he would support legislation banning text messaging while driving.
“I think it just creates a terrible opportunity for disastrous accidents,” Harris said. He said he expects Senate legislation calling for a ban to be introduced in September.
His comments came on the same day that state Rep. Michael DeBose, D-Cleveland, introduced House Bill 261 which would prohibit driving while text messaging or typing on a mobile communication device.
DeBose also introduced broader legislation, House Bill 262, that would prohibit driving while talking, text messaging or typing on a mobile communication device.
According to the Governors Highway Safety Association, 16 states and the District of Columbia now ban text messaging while driving.
Here’s a chance to get in the text messaging debate.
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Comments
By PLC
August 13, 2009 3:11 PM | Link to this
Texting, talking on cell while driving……. How far must our “Ohio legislators lean” before they come to the realization that using a cell phone while driving is a serious diversion which can result in serious damage to property and the safety of innocent people? Ralph Nader was able to convince the government to legislate the installation of seat belt and air bags to all new cars sold in the entire country. These were products that most customers wouldn’t pay for until it was mandated into the price of the car. Where is Ralph when we need him? A simple mandate could be that the car must be installed with a device that makes the Cell phone unusable while the car is motion or not in PARK. Disabling this device could carry a serious fine to discourage the creative phone techies. This relieves the police, who have enough on their plate, from having to prove that the driver was using the phone while driving. An alternative solution which might be favored by the Ohio legislator who wants to further liberalize the “Conceal/Carry” law might be; allowing a person, when in a life threatening situation, to “shoot first and ask questions later”. I have encountered several such situations where fortunately I was more alert than the “Cell phonic” driver. As with guns and cell phones, the tools don’t kill people, the users kill people.By banthemall
August 6, 2009 2:25 PM | Link to this
People who text while driving should get ticketed. The same goes for people talking on cell phones while driving. If you need to talk to someone that badly, get off the road and make your call or text. I’m tired of having to dodge you to get out of your way!By banthemall
August 6, 2009 2:25 PM | Link to this
People who text while driving should get ticketed. The same goes for people talking on cell phones while driving. If you need to talk to someone that badly, get off the road and make your call or text. I’m tired of having to dodge you to get out of your way!By kelly
August 6, 2009 1:38 PM | Link to this
texting while driving thats nothing…American Laid shaves her dogs butt while she drivesBy cecil
August 6, 2009 1:28 PM | Link to this
I think that the Feds should encourage text messaging while driving. Car makers should build the steering wheel with an indention in the center to hold the cell phone. eating and texting at the same time should be strongly encouraged.By HuberTucky
August 6, 2009 1:25 PM | Link to this
my friend Don P is 100% spot on. Driving is NOT a right, It is an earned privilege and way too many people are poor drivers without ANY distractions. Add a cell phone and NHSB says it’s like drunk driving. Add texting and folks take their eyes off the road for 4.6 seconds and travel the length of a football field without viewing the road. Too much can happen in that distance. Ban it and give prison time to violators who threaten my family’s safety.By shellymoe
August 6, 2009 12:13 PM | Link to this
I can drive & talk, but I don’t do it often. I’ve texted a couple of times & it scared me to the point that I just ignore the text until I’m stopped now. I’m one of those drivers who watches all other drivers because there’s always one who’s not paying attention. No one is contacted via text for an emergency. If it’s important, they’ll call. One can have a conversation in 2 minutes while talking versus 4+ minutes of texting back & forth. They also should ban TV/DVD players that are in the driver’s view. Twice on Rt. 4 I saw people watching TV, driving more than 10 mph UNDER the limit! The texting generation needs to lose the sense of entitlement their idiotic parents gave them & start thinking of the safety of others. If a driver distracted by electronics hits me, they better hope I can’t get out of my car because I promise you, I will go to jail for assault - especially if my kids are with me!By Don P
August 6, 2009 12:04 PM | Link to this
Bet your a*s I support banning texting…and cell phone use in a MOVING car, as well. There are far, far too many lame BOZOS driving around with a cell phone in their ears and a complete inability to multi-task. Unfortunately, since these idiots are too friggin’ stoopid to not act dangerously, someone will have to make the decision FOR them !By Hey Danger
August 6, 2009 11:24 AM | Link to this
The Law isn’t going to save you. Never has, never will. They will just add a charge after the accident has already occured. You want to save people educate them about the dangers. I am sorry if you have had a loved one die. We all have. My father died in an accident but you don’t see me out there trying to ban condos.By Secret Messages
August 6, 2009 11:23 AM | Link to this
Common sense has been replaced with LAWS. Texting while driving will be against the law soon. It is dangerous to take your eyes and mind off the road. Please do what is right.By jonathan
August 6, 2009 11:22 AM | Link to this
Are you **ing kidding me, we don’t need a law for texting how about talking on the damn phone. In all my 10 years driving here in Ohio, all my near wrecks or someone driving stupid always involved a person on their cell phone. If I ever get in a wreck, and someone is on the phone I will sue the cell phone company…….By Danger
August 6, 2009 10:58 AM | Link to this
Would you like it if I was behind the wheel of a vehicle texting and not paying attention and ran over one of your loved ones? I don’t think so. So why take that gamble and put others lives in danger.If someone just need to text then pull the heck over and do so. A life can’t be replaced.By Danger
August 6, 2009 10:53 AM | Link to this
Texting should be against the law while operating a motor vehicle of any kind. These lame folks that don’t feel as such a law should be passed are fools. This type of behavior puts others lives in harms way. It only takes a split second to run into something or someone.By rudy
August 6, 2009 10:22 AM | Link to this
I like technology, it is a good thing. However, everyone of you that are constantly sending text messages, whether driving or not, are hilarious. Get a life please. What a complete waste of time, nobody cares. I heard the other day that the newest cell phone will give the user the ability to actually talk into it and hear someone else on the other line! amazing!By bridgett
August 6, 2009 10:11 AM | Link to this
if you all want to live in a country where we have no rights or freedoms then move to Korea or China you bone heads… you are all acting like a bunch of ignorant people who cant think for yourselves. i mean really “ban eating and drinking” while driving? are you serious!? what is wrong with you people. i am all for safety dont get me wrong but what next, ban looking at ur passenger, ban looking out the window.. wait ban farting in public, or how bout ban sneezing out loud, or blinking your eyes… no wait i have a good one ban taking a dump, or ban painting your toe nails, HOW BOUT BAN SMOKING BECAUSE I AM LOSING SECONDS OFF MY LIFE EVERY TIME ONE OF YOU CANCER STICK PEOPLE LITES UP!? you dont like that idea do ya? didnt think so… get ur heads out of ur butts people… get a grip… we are talking about texting not doing head stands while driving with your eyes blind folded!By TFB
August 6, 2009 10:11 AM | Link to this
THIS SEEMS TO REALLY HAVE THE CHILDRENS PANTIES IN A MIFF. Remember this, at one time drinking and driving was not against the law.By SOCIALISM=jOKER
August 6, 2009 10:06 AM | Link to this
Losers, Change will come and more laws will be written to protect us from ourselves. We continue to act like freemen but the lawyers continue to fill the books with new laws. New laws means more jails to be built. Freedom WAS nice, for the short time we had it.By crustybiker
August 6, 2009 9:59 AM | Link to this
Jgirl! It only takes one distraction to cause an accedent I ride a motorcycle and if you are distracted txting I don’t want you on the same road I am riding on!By jim
August 6, 2009 9:41 AM | Link to this
Oh sure…lets just pass a LAW so we Americans just can’t do anything and then say it is for our own good …Too much GOVERMENT helping me!!!! stop it now…By Annie
August 6, 2009 9:40 AM | Link to this
While having a ban “on the books” would be helpful in wrongful death lawsuits, getting people to stop behaving as if they are the only person whose life matters isn’t easily legislated. Americans are selfish. All of us. I’ve nearly been hit several times standing at the corner, waiting to cross, because someone in a car felt that they just HAD to get wherever they were going. Cellphones have only made this worse, and not because the conversations are that important, either. Unless you’re a surgeon, cop, or spy AND conducting life-or-death business on that phone: SHUT UP. Put the phone down. Seriously. Same for texting. My life really IS more important than knowing who got traded to what team or who so-and-so is dating. eyeroll And I used to think coffee, makeup and newspapers were bad distractions…By JGirl
August 6, 2009 9:35 AM | Link to this
I’ll be the first to admit; i text while driving, but i NEVER do it while on the highway nor in any heavy traffic. I am female, mid 20s, and my driving record is flawless—-only one wreck in 10 years, and that was when i was 16. I wasn’t on the phone texting then. Like I previously stated, let’s worry about more important issues, PLEASE!!!!! I do, however, believe that they should issue driving tests every 10 years to assure consistency in our drivers. There are people out there twice my age with many more years of driving experience that are HORRIBLE drivers and present a much larger risk than somebody texting! COME ON!By Pleasenotmoregovernment
August 6, 2009 9:31 AM | Link to this
Do we really need one more thing for the cops to do. I mean they already “get off” giving speeding tickets at the end of the month. Sheesh!By don
August 6, 2009 9:29 AM | Link to this
Here’s the issue…the vast majority of texting is done by young, inexperienced drivers who are worried about how cool they look while driving. There’s a reason insurance rates for young drivers are so high…they’re a risk because they’re generally inattentive while driving. Texting is the ultimate form of innattentiveness.By GEN X
August 6, 2009 9:28 AM | Link to this
Go, JGirl!!! Go JGirl!!!By JGirl
August 6, 2009 9:22 AM | Link to this
This is absolutely ridiculous… If we are going to be concerned with such a SMALL issue with today’s world then the government needs to open their eyes and see our real problems-murder, hard drugs, rape, loss of jobs, people losing their homes to foreclosure, funding education for children etc…if they’re going to worry about somebody texting while in their car then they should also ban other things in the car: no eating in the car, no putting make-up on in the car, no music in the car, etc. These are all as much distractions to drivers as texting is. If you can’t pay attention to the road you shouldn’t be on it anyways!!! STUPID IDEA!!!!!!! And for whomever said 6months jail time—you’re crazy. People get away with murder and other such harder crimes for less time!!!By GEN X
August 6, 2009 9:21 AM | Link to this
LET’S BAN ALL WOMEN FROM DRIVING LIKE THEY DO IN THE MIDDLE EAST. THEY DON’T HAVE ANY TEXTING WHILE DRIVING ACCIDENTS. MOSTLY WOMEN TEXT WHILE DRIVING. BAN THEM ALL TOGETHER. MAKE SENSE? BAN EVERYTHING, NOW WHAT. I DONT TEXT EVEN WHILE NOT DRIVING. IF YOU DO YOU ARE A SELFISH MORON THAT IS ENDANGERING US ALL. BUT I STILL DON’T BELIEVE IN LEGISLATING COMMON SENSE. YOU PARENTS OUT THERE ARE NOT DOING A GOOD JOB! THE GOVERNMENT WAS NOT MEANT TO DO THE THINKING FOR YOU.By deb
August 6, 2009 9:14 AM | Link to this
yes most defiantly i have a cell phone but only use it for emg in case car break down or med emg. And then i have enough sense to pull off the road. The other day a woman was talking on a cell phone while turning her wheel with one hand and missed hitting me by inches yes it should be bound and using the phone while driving should also be strickly inforced if u don’t turn on ur lights while it’s raining watch how fast u get a ticket but be on ur cell phone during raining and they look the other way.By deb
August 6, 2009 9:12 AM | Link to this
yes most defiantly i have a cell phone but only use it for emg in case car break down or med emg. And then i have enough sense to pull off the road. The other day a woman was talking on a cell phone while turning her wheel with one hand and missed hitting me by inches yes it should be bound and using the phone while driving should also be strickly inforced if u don’t turn on ur lights while it’s raining watch how fast u get a ticket but be on ur cell phone during raining and they look the other way.By Gen X
August 6, 2009 9:08 AM | Link to this
We have much BIGGER problems to solve than texting while driving… Keep your eyes on the road and DRIVE DEFENSIVELY! I swear half of you people are Nazi’s. We can’t waste precious money and resources creating new legislation every time there is something we dont like. Accidents happen and PUPPY’S DIE EVERY DAY! NO LAW IS GOING TO SAVE YOU. Let’s ban all sports because children get injured and even die while playing them.By Tom
August 6, 2009 9:00 AM | Link to this
I would heartily support a ban on use of a cell phone, in any fashion, while driving. It is my belief that they contribute to more crashes than any other source, including DUI.By M
August 6, 2009 8:53 AM | Link to this
Yes, I think it is stupid to text. HOWEVER, I also think that if there is a law banning it, people will try to be more sneaky. Hence, putting even more lives at risk.By My 2 sense
August 6, 2009 8:32 AM | Link to this
“My Opinion” is right on the money. It’s a shame the state has to develop a law because of a lack of common sense.By Laura
August 6, 2009 8:20 AM | Link to this
Are you kidding? I swear every time I find some one swerving on the road, when I catch up to them- to get away from their reckless driving, I look over and notice that they are USUALLY trying to text a message! How ridiculous to think you are able to drive safely while doing this? Other states have outlawed using your cell phones at all while driving, I’m surprised we haven’t followed yet.By Karpis
August 6, 2009 8:13 AM | Link to this
EJ, what does “kist” mean? Did you mean to type JUST? Maybe you should concentrate on your driving and wait til you get where you’re going to send a messageBy the Strawboss
August 6, 2009 8:05 AM | Link to this
There have been studies that prove hands free devices are just as distracting as regular cell calls. And both are more distracting than an actual passenger. I’ve done it too, but you won’t die if you can’t use your phone all the time. If you do use it, though, someone else might…By EJ
August 6, 2009 8:02 AM | Link to this
It’s kist another intrusion of the federal gov’t into peoples daily lives to micro control.By EJ
August 6, 2009 8:02 AM | Link to this
It’s kist another intrusion of the federal gov’t into peop;es daily lives to micro control.By Barbara
August 6, 2009 7:20 AM | Link to this
The law enforcement officers are not enforcing the laws we already have. During last Tues. storm, over have of the cars I saw on the roads did not have their headlights on. Which is now a LAW in Ohio whenever you are using you windshield wipers. Not to even mention not using turn signals. There are ALWAYS going to be distractions while driving. Just taking your eyes off the road to turn on the a/c is more than some people can handle at one time!By Barbara
August 6, 2009 7:19 AM | Link to this
The law enforcement officers are not enforcing the laws we already have. During last Tues. storm, over have of the cars I saw on the roads did not have their headlights on. Which is now a LAW in Ohio whenever you are using you windshield wipers. Not to even mention not using turn signals. There are ALWAYS going to be distraction while driving. Just taking your eyes off the road to turn on the a/c is more than some people can handle at one time!By Donnelsville Guy
August 6, 2009 7:08 AM | Link to this
I used to pride myself in being able to read the WSJ, handle a Big Mac, use my cell phone and drive with my knees. However, unlike my old USAF jet, my car does not have autopilot and frankly, as you get older, your reflexes slow down a bit, so I have cut out the WSJ as my eyesight just isn’t adequate to the task (at least at night). Every day I’m put at risk by this type of behavior on a regular basis but then God gave us free will to be stupid and many people take full advantage of their opportunities!By Concern
August 6, 2009 7:00 AM | Link to this
I think cell phones are great i have one my self, But when it gets to the point when people are talking on the a cell phone or text messageing and holding up traffic or not watching whats going on, where your going thats a big problem and i have seen this,if you have a call pull over and take it dont put other peoples lives in your hands.By angus
August 6, 2009 6:51 AM | Link to this
What are they going to do next? Make it illegal to text while you poop because it’s unsanitary? God for bid - I pass my cell phone to a stranger and give them some disease.By Hawkeye
August 6, 2009 5:51 AM | Link to this
Is it okay to have sex while driving?By Trish
August 6, 2009 5:50 AM | Link to this
Why do people want to ban hands-free cell phone use in cars? If it’s talking that is the distraction, we should not be allowed to have passengers with whom we may converse,either.By XLENT Driver
August 6, 2009 5:44 AM | Link to this
R U Kidding?!? It’s the only way 2 communicate - sent from my iphoneBy K1275
August 6, 2009 2:32 AM | Link to this
Yes!! We should ban it because unfortunatly we live in a selfish society that only thinks of themselves and only whats going on in their lives. Never once thinking if I take my eyes off the road to type who’s lives am I putting in danger? Yes we have to live in a nanny state because people are too stupid to realize the damage you can do to not only a car but to people’s lives. Think about how stupid you’d feel waking up in the hospital after killing a family because you wanted to text someone “LMAO” Who would be laughing then?By Alicia
August 5, 2009 11:47 PM | Link to this
ok!I do understand texting is dangerous but what if the ones with the earpiece and all that stuff. and I do undestand that if we had no cell phone we would have to wait but i dont think they should stop the cell phone completely all together this is new day and age now we dont live in the old ages now we are in the new technology now we are in the 2009 now.By Wrongnumber
August 5, 2009 11:33 PM | Link to this
Unfortunately, outlawing texting would be difficult to enforce until after the accident. All distractions within the car should be banned.By LuLu
August 5, 2009 11:08 PM | Link to this
I think that they should band cell phones all together..Keep them close but turned off while driving..It makes me wonder what we did years ago without cell phones..we survived and waited until we got home to use the phone..By INSURANCE@AOL.COM
August 5, 2009 10:09 PM | Link to this
FOLKS, FROM WHAT I HEAR, INSURANCE COMPANIES ARE CHANGING POLICIES SOON. IF YOU GET IN AN ACCIDENT AND YOU WERE ON THE PHONE AT ALL, YOU ARE NOT COVERED BY YOUR INSURANCE COMPANY. SAME AS A DUI.By RAW
August 5, 2009 10:01 PM | Link to this
OK, so texting while driving is not smart. It is wreckless in simple terms. Therefore, rather than spending unecessary time writing new legislation for another nanny-state law, why do we not just include cell phone operation, any cell phone operation including texting, in with the “Wreckless Operation” offense. Personally, I spend time on my phone in the car for me it is hard to avoid, but I recognize the danger it poses, therefore I would support modifying existing laws where police would need to meet the burden of proof for wreckless behavior. I will not support another nanny state law that continues to erode our freedoms.By Joe
August 5, 2009 9:48 PM | Link to this
Ban texting while driving… HECK NO… I feel it’s people going after technology rather than the PROBLEM. If you want to go after the problem, BAN DISTRACTED DRIVING, all inclusive!! - Ban parents from dealing with their children. - Ban smokers from smoking in the car! - Ban any sort of personal care (ie: Shaving, makeup application, etc.) - Ban people from reading books on the steering wheel. - Ban TVs and DVDs - Ban loud music - etc. etc. etc. The problem is not the behaviors or the technology. the problem is distracted driving… Deal with it ALL or not at all!!By Mad ad Heck
August 5, 2009 9:42 PM | Link to this
To “Mad As Hell” - Somebody totaled your new off-the-lot Trailblazer? You shouldnt be mad - they did you a favor! Lose some weight and you wont need a gas guzzler to cart your girth around.By Carl
August 5, 2009 9:11 PM | Link to this
Where does commom sense come in to play here. Driving texting, cell phoning, eating lunch, yelling at the kids all at the same time will kill you and who you hit. Now I understand you have the right to kill your family and the next guys but somewhere we have gotr to stop being stupidBy My name is Earl
August 5, 2009 8:16 PM | Link to this
I’m afraid those elite folks who think they can multi-task while they drive are only in denial. Putting it bluntly, I don’t care what you choose to do to yourself and your kids if they’ re with you, but like someone else said, your right to think you can handle it ends at my fender.By Cedric E. Arle
August 5, 2009 7:48 PM | Link to this
My wife and I were nearly broadsided at SR725 and SR741 on Monday by a guy in a PT Cruiser who ran the EB red light. In his left hand after skidding to a halt was his blackberry. Ban texting since idiots like him don’t have enough sense to focus on driving.By Barry
August 5, 2009 7:06 PM | Link to this
if people can drive with little screaming ankle biters in the car (they belong in the trunk) then I ought to be able to talk on the phone.By Jerry
August 5, 2009 6:56 PM | Link to this
Ban all cell phone use while driving i.e. Washington DC. Just because the phone rings, doesn’t mean you have to answer it. The other day at a stop light, the light turned green, after about a 3 car interval had pull away, I tap my horn. The woman held her cell phone out the window… Guess I was interupting her call… How rude of me…By Jerry
August 5, 2009 6:56 PM | Link to this
Ban all cell phone use while driving i.e. Washington DC. Just because the phone rings, doesn’t mean you have to answer it. The other day at a stop light, the light turned green, after about a 3 car interval had pull away, I tap my horn. The woman held her cell phone out the window… Guess I was interupting her call… How rude of me…By Joanie
August 5, 2009 6:10 PM | Link to this
Anything you can do “Mindlessly” can be done while driving. Scratching an itch, passing gas, eating can be mindless when you realize the food is gone and you can’t remember eating it. I’m not sure I could respect someone who could mindlessly chatter to me on the phone. The only time I’ve experienced that is when a telemarketer calls. They don’t hear my end of the conversation even if I tell them there has been a death in the family and they continue on with their spill unscathed. When employees start losing their jobs because of cell phone and text use, regardless of an accident, that should curb a percentage of abusers. The problem with abusers is that they don’t realize they are addicted. It’s a River of De Nile.By Read them all
August 5, 2009 5:54 PM | Link to this
Wow “Walt”, really, too old for a phone?… Wow “Kat”, just so you know, driving “is” (is), !is! is, multitasking. Using a phone isn’t since you can’t drive and use a phone… I feel for you “mad as hell”, I got rearended by someone that was paying attention… he just didn’t have brakes. Oh, and for the guy who said you can’t text and ride a motorcycle… yes, you can, even with gloves on. Left hand: clutch in, clutch out. The texts just ends up looking like: W4a tiss up. Peace.By denni
August 5, 2009 5:49 PM | Link to this
The discussion seems to be about distracted drivers. What about people who smoke with one hand and are eating or drinking with the other? What is the difference? Some people are capable of multitasking and some are not. Punish the people who are not capable of texting/talking/whatever on a phone. Shouldn’t our elected officials worry more about the school funding issue and other financial issues in Ohio or is there time best utilized discussion cell phone use? Remember they are making over $100,000 a year to discuss this.By textmessage
August 5, 2009 5:42 PM | Link to this
yes i know its COMPATIBLE, but that happens if your driving and text at the same time. Need i say more ?By textmessage
August 5, 2009 5:32 PM | Link to this
PHONE AND CAR USED AT THE SAME TIME ARE NOT, I REPEAT NOT!!COMPETABLE!!!!!!!!!By textmessage
August 5, 2009 5:32 PM | Link to this
PHONE AND CAR USED AT THE SAME TIME ARE NOT, I REPEAT NOT!!COMPETABLE!!!!!!!!!By northmont mom
August 5, 2009 5:25 PM | Link to this
I drive for a living and every day people are on the phone or texting and not paying attention to their driving. Worse yet, are the ones merging onto the highway and don’t even look. by the way people if you are merging into traffic it is your resposibility to adjust your speed acordingly and proceed with enough speed to move ahead or fall behind traffic not those on the highway to get out of your way. Often there is someone in farther left lane that you may not see so traffic on highway can not always move over. You do not have right of way. Many signs have been posted about leaving space. PAY ATENTION AND GET OFF THE PHONE!By Keith
August 5, 2009 5:15 PM | Link to this
Not only texting but hands on phone conversations should be banned while driving. Hands free is still dangerous because you are not totally concentrating on driving.By Becky
August 5, 2009 5:00 PM | Link to this
There are some that cannot multi-task no matter what it is. No you shouldn’t be texting while the car is in motion, but if you’re at a light, I don’t see a problem with it. I think the person should be punished if it causes an accident, not the entire world. People kill me getting all bent out of shape about CELL PHONES. Does it tick me off when someone is yapping on their phone and not paying attention, sure, but should it be banned, I don’t think so. You never know what is an emergency for someone who may need to take a call besides a doctor while on the road. Maybe they should include that as part of the driving test, see if you can talk, text and drive at the same time. What we need to get off the road is those repeat offenders, no offense to the elderly, but those who are of age and really shouldn’t be behind the wheel, and those who run stop signs and red lights, especially in neighborhoods where children play. I see it every day. Some people who don’t like cell phones period for whatever reason, co-worker included, just don’t want to see others with one. Haters, that’s all it is. Try and control yourself and what you do and not the entire world for a few.By Jim
August 5, 2009 4:55 PM | Link to this
Beltqueen, Your point is flawed. Text messaging puts innocent drivers on the road at risk. If you choose to not wear your seatbelt, that doesn’t affect me. But if you t-bone someone because you’re distracted from texting, you’ve injured innocent people.By coolhand
August 5, 2009 4:39 PM | Link to this
I am dizzy from reading all this. Yes, there are laws on the books about impaired and distracted driving. Enforce them. Also there is personal accountability and responsibility. Driving is a privilege so be accountable and responsible.By yes
August 5, 2009 4:26 PM | Link to this
Yes YES YES YES YES YES YES YES YES YES. no more texting while driving,its just stupid to do so.By Dixie Lady
August 5, 2009 4:06 PM | Link to this
They should ban any use of a cell while driving- There isn’t a day that goes by that I don’t witness a near accident or an accident due to people distracted by their cell phone and I only drive 20 miles a day round trip on surface streets. While they’re at it they can ban the vehicles with stereo systems booming so loud they shake the car next to them. How could they possibly hear an emergency vehicle?By Tony
August 5, 2009 3:59 PM | Link to this
I say we go back to the 50s. No cell phones at all, and women at home to cook dinner and take care of the kids, that way all the reasons for the distractions are taken care of and there are more jobs available!By beltqueen
August 5, 2009 3:56 PM | Link to this
I would if they could make SEAT BELTS a Primary Law first. Amazing that they are willing to pass something on text messaging but we cant even start at the beginning with a Primary Seat Belt Law. We are the only state in the region who does not have on and continuing to loose money and lives daily. But yes lets talk text messaging.By Helpful
August 5, 2009 3:46 PM | Link to this
cmpw, honey, just click once on “post your comment”. Otherwise you kinda look like a doofus.By Bugford
August 5, 2009 3:45 PM | Link to this
Of course they need to ban texting — driving isn’t a right, it’s a privilege. And they really just need to ban cell phones from cars altogether — too distracting. Come to think of it, maps are distracting, too. Actually, the government should ban all items from the car that are, or ever could be, distracting. And I’d start by eliminating glove-boxes, because that could carry all kinds of distractions that the driver could try to access. And don’t even get me started on passengers! Passengers have to be the biggest distractions in the car. Can the government do that? Of course they can! Remember - driving is a privilege, not a right. No phones, no maps, no radio, no yakking passengers, no looking at your fingernails, no drinking a cup of coffee. Just the driver all belted in wearing his government-approved helmet and safety suit. Just keep letting the government interfere with every aspect of your existence, all in the name of safety and security. They know best.By Jack
August 5, 2009 3:43 PM | Link to this
Do we need yet another excuse for big brother to stop us? There are already laws against distracted driving. If you cause an accident then you will pay. This is just another excuse to stop you and collect a little more revenue.By cmpw
August 5, 2009 3:32 PM | Link to this
Waddya talking about I can text, talk on the phone, read the paper, shave, brush my teeth, brush my hair, drink my coffee, eat, and surf the net while driving. In fact I’m posting this message as I, oh man hope that wasn’t you in front of me I just hit!By cmpw
August 5, 2009 3:31 PM | Link to this
Waddya talking about I can text, talk on the phone, read the paper, shave, brush my teeth, brush my hair, drink my coffee, eat, and surf the net while driving. In fact I’m posting this message as I, oh man hope that wasn’t you in front of me I just hit!By cmpw
August 5, 2009 3:31 PM | Link to this
Waddya talking about I can text, talk on the phone, read the paper, shave, brush my teeth, brush my hair, drink my coffee, eat, and surf the net while driving. In fact I’m posting this message as I, oh man hope that wasn’t you in front of me I just hit!By Chris
August 5, 2009 3:29 PM | Link to this
I’ll support the ban on texting while driving as soon as they ban the use of playing the radio and eating while driving. Don’t they already have a law saying that you have to be in control of your vehicle while driving?By Walt
August 5, 2009 3:22 PM | Link to this
I’m too old to have a cell phone. But I do know it is dangerous to be sending sex pictures of yourself while driving.By cell phone user
August 5, 2009 3:19 PM | Link to this
There should be a ban on cell phone use while the car or truck is in motion, unless you use a hands-free device or the speakerphone. I try to be aware of what’s going on all around me—the incidents I’ve witnessed are too many to count. Some of the recent ones: (a) I was at a stoplight and someone approached at 40-50 mph—he was on his phone; (b)the person switching lanes back and forth at 50 mph in a 35 zone—I catch a glimpse of the phone glued to her ear. Please, cell phone users: either use a hands-free device or speakerphone or just let the darn thing ring until you get to your destination!By Jerry
August 5, 2009 3:16 PM | Link to this
sounds like another refenewBy CookieBaker
August 5, 2009 3:15 PM | Link to this
Kat, what are you, 12? Your right to text and “multi-task” stops where my fender starts. And Bill, you must be in Kat’s grade. The point of banning texting would be to eliminate those long, loving gazes at the cell phone. Whether texting, checking to see who called, or looking for a number, you’re NOT PAYING ATTENTION! I had two little girls and lost one due to illness. Please don’t tell me that someone’s selfish need to yak and blab is worth endangering the life of the little girl I still have. Ban all cell phone usage while driving.By panman
August 5, 2009 3:06 PM | Link to this
Or using a cell phone without a hands free device.By RP McMurphy
August 5, 2009 3:02 PM | Link to this
To pass a law against cell phone usage or texting or whatever would be to invite more government into our lives. “Big Brother” has already pulled the strings on cigarettes and it’s just a matter of time before alcohol gets unflattering light shone on it. What it comes down to is human stupidity. If there is to be any law, it should be the law of common sense imposed upon us by our parents and peers. Place the blame squarely upon the shoulders of those responsible (parents, cell phone providers, etc.)holding them liable for any accident or damages incurred to another.By weighing in
August 5, 2009 2:39 PM | Link to this
You can’t legislate common sense, unfortunately. But if someone I love is killed in a Texting accident - I should be able to sue the texter, textee and cell phone company for all they’re worth, small comfort that will be, though.By mad as hell
August 5, 2009 2:37 PM | Link to this
THIS IS FOR SERIOUSLY….YES THERE IS A LAW FOR THIS. IT IS CALLED NOT PAYING ATTENTION. THAT IS HOW MY BRAND NEW OFF THE LOT TRAILBLAZER WAS TOTALED DRIVING IT HOME. THE STUPID PERSON DRIVING BEHIND ME WAS TEXTING, EATING FRIES AND OOOPPS DROPPED HIS SODA, RAMMED RIGHT INTO THE BACK OF ME. NOW WHAT IF THAT HAPPENED TO YOU. YOU WOULD NOT BE SO QUICK TO MAKE YOUR SMART A@@ REMARKS.By mad as hell
August 5, 2009 2:36 PM | Link to this
THIS IS FOR SERIOUSLY….YES THERE IS A LAW FOR THIS. IT IS CALLED NOT PAYING ATTENTION. THAT IS HOW MY BRAND NEW OFF THE LOT TRAILBLAZER WAS TOTALED DRIVING IT HOME. THE STUPID PERSON DRIVING BEHIND ME WAS TEXTING, EATING FRIE AND OOOPPS DROPPED HIS SODA, RAMMED RIGHT INTO THE BACK OF ME. NOW WHAT IF THAT HAPPENED TO YOU. YOU WOULD NOT BE SO QUICK TO MAKE YOUR SMART A@@ REMARKS.By ExplainationX
August 5, 2009 2:25 PM | Link to this
Law is already on the books. I don’t care if they are talking or texting as long as they have insurance and enough financial investments for me to collect when they cause an accident that involves me or mine.By Cindy
August 5, 2009 2:14 PM | Link to this
As I am sure any Judge will tell you; driving is a privilege, not a right. So take care of the privilege.By Stephen Garner
August 5, 2009 2:14 PM | Link to this
There should also be a ban on cell phone use while driving!By DRO
August 5, 2009 2:11 PM | Link to this
YES texting and use of cell phones that are not handfree should be banned. NY state does not allow it, read the signs as you go into their state. Courts should require when a person comes to court for a violation be it an accident or caught using the cell/texting they need to bring the cell bill with time and date usage. If they were using them slap them with a VERY LARGE fine.By Seriously?
August 5, 2009 2:01 PM | Link to this
Are they going to ban talking to other passengers in the car or perhaps reaching for something your kid dropped from the car seat? Things like that are just as distracting as cell phone use, but I do agree that texting does hamper some people from driving effectively. I am completelt guilty of texting while driving and try not to, but I just don’t see how they will enforce it unless they can get someone to admit to it when pulled over or in an accident. But as per usual, some of us on here have taken a simple discussion way too far…By me
August 5, 2009 1:58 PM | Link to this
I definitely think there should be a law against it! I have seen people doing this while driving and they are all over the road! One young girl actually went up on a retaining wall on I75 while texting! They should ban all cell phone use while driving. They have done so in Europe and on U.S. Government property and you don’t hear any complaints about it! Please at least ban texting! It is very dangerous as there have been young people killed in the past due to this problem!By kurt
August 5, 2009 1:54 PM | Link to this
put a signal jammer right on the engine.Cells would only work when the car ISN’T RUNNING.There,end of discussionBy Josh
August 5, 2009 1:54 PM | Link to this
Perhaps they should ban radios, GPS, noisy kids, and conversations with passengers while driving so there can be “100% concentration while driving”… just sayingBy kurt
August 5, 2009 1:51 PM | Link to this
And then I was like….and he was like…..and we were like…..SMACK CRASH BOOM. Text at home—-life ain’t that busy.Show regard for everyone’s safetyBy More ideas
August 5, 2009 1:50 PM | Link to this
I for one think this is an excellent idea; however, I believe they should take such laws even further. Eating and drinking in a car should also be banned as I have seen way to many near accidents due to people trying to finish their cheeseburger and diet coke. Also, they should ban GPS systems as they distract the driver from the road. In fact all car stereos should also be banned as people tend to fiddle with the knobs and not pay attention to the road… besides I don’t want to listen to any of your crappy music and shouldn’t have to.By kurt
August 5, 2009 1:46 PM | Link to this
Hey Kat,I don’t want your “ability” to multi-task infringing on my RIGHT TO A SAFE ROADWAY.Driving requires 100 % coincentration,100% of the time—if you can’t accept that,WALK !!!!By brenda
August 5, 2009 1:46 PM | Link to this
How do you enforce it? You can see when someone is holding the device and looking down at it. You pull them over and give them a ticket with a huge fine on it! If it is big enough maybe they won’t be able to pay the stupid cell phone bill for a few months. It does impair driving, I hate to get in the car with my daughter because she acts like every phone call she gets is life or death. And she gets a call every five minutes. Slap huge fines on them!By kurt
August 5, 2009 1:43 PM | Link to this
For years,eating while driving was illegal.The ONLY thing stopping texting from being illegal is the great lobbying power of phone companies/business.HEY DEBBIE,we’re talking about driving,not everyday life.By Anon
August 5, 2009 1:38 PM | Link to this
It’s not the people texting, it’s the people talking on the phone that bugs me (they should ban that). You can’t exactly see if people are texting anyway so I don’t know how they are going to be able to enforce it.By Lovadatexting
August 5, 2009 1:37 PM | Link to this
I love to drink, drive,and smoke while texting in my Gran Turino.By Kat
August 5, 2009 1:35 PM | Link to this
This would be just another infringement on peoples individual liberties. I say keep the laws the way they are and punish those who create a problem with their bad habits. Not those who have the brain capacity to multi-task.By Melody
August 5, 2009 1:30 PM | Link to this
OK - let’s be real -those of you who think it’s ok to text while driving aren’t using your entire brain. It is dangerous and stupid - I wish they could find a way to enforce it and attach huge fines to it. Does it ever make you wonder what has happened to us in the U.S….we have too much of everything and people end up not caring about anything! Give up the texting and save a life! It’s no different from drinking and driving - you still don’t give driving your undivided attention!By Michelle
August 5, 2009 1:24 PM | Link to this
It should be common sense that you don’t text or talk on your cell phone while you’re driving, as it distracts you from paying attention to the road. If it’s an emergency, pull over. If it’s too much of an inconvenience to pull over, that means it’s not an emergency and you don’t have the right to risk other people’s lives just because your BFF wants relationship advice.By hakko
August 5, 2009 1:23 PM | Link to this
Texting while driving should not be allowed, but it is also common sense. Require a handsfree device for talking on cell phone while driving. Why not ban that too? How is it any different than talking to a passenger if you have a hands free device?By gunther
August 5, 2009 1:13 PM | Link to this
suspend all cell phone use while driving! You morons that drive and talk on the phone hold up traffic, cause accidents and have no regard for your safety or others.By GOD is DEAD and You MORONS killed him
August 5, 2009 1:13 PM | Link to this
This is a shout out to all you ignorant morons out there that think doing anything other than concentrating on driving, while trying to operate a 2000 lb piece of machinery in and out of traffic. Stop procreating because it is idiots like you that talk, drink, eat, text, put make up on, and who knows what else that is causes fatal crashes. Driving is a privilege not a right, thus you should treat it with the respect you would a privilege. I think law enforcement should start to really crack down on some of our driving laws and many many many people should be losing their driving privileges. If you think it is okay to eat, drink, talk or text on the phone, watch tv, read, finish you make up or hair, shave, sleep, have sex, or anything else other than pay attention to the road and other drivers please go to the dmv hand them you license and tell them you are to stupid to have it…they will understand. MORONS.By Bill
August 5, 2009 1:08 PM | Link to this
Justin, you think you know, but you don’t know. Just because someone is looking at their phone doesn’t mean they are texting. They could be looking at the screen to see who is calling. They could be dialing a phone number. Not everyone using a phone is texting.By Garrett
August 5, 2009 1:03 PM | Link to this
Hey, Beatles. Did you at least get a nice breeze when the world passed you by? Not sure how old you are, but it’s obvious your best years are behind you. The world evolves and technology is a good thing. Embrace it, because you sound as though you need a good hug.By Justin
August 5, 2009 1:02 PM | Link to this
It’s a simple law to enforce. I can always tell when someone is texting and so can a cop. It’s a lot easier to recognize than most people driving under the influence. It’s common sense.By Execute the Morons
August 5, 2009 1:01 PM | Link to this
Driving while using the phone (texting or talking) studies have should is as dangerous as driving while intoxicated, and thus should have similar punishment. Execute them all.By PWC032096
August 5, 2009 1:00 PM | Link to this
Nothing infuriates me more than some idiot holding up traffic at an intersection because they are too distracted by their cell phone. BAN IT!!!By Kellee
August 5, 2009 12:57 PM | Link to this
I meant to say that if the driver who is at fault in an accident is found to have been texting or talking on their phone (without a hands free device)at the time of the accident the penalties should be more severe.By beatles
August 5, 2009 12:57 PM | Link to this
I think cell phones themselves should be banned!! They’re just unnecessary. All cell phones should only be able to dial one number and that’s 911, after that, anymore than 3 numbers should automatically disable the phone!By beatles
August 5, 2009 12:56 PM | Link to this
I think cell phones themselves should be banned!! They’re just unnecessary. All cell phones should only be able to dial one number and that’s 911, after that, anymore than 3 numbers should automatically disable the phone!By DEB
August 5, 2009 12:56 PM | Link to this
Hey if I can’t drink beer while I am driving why should anyone have the right to text message?By Stop comparing texting to talking
August 5, 2009 12:56 PM | Link to this
Driving is not brain surgery. There is nothing wrong with talking on the phone. It’s the same as talking to your passenger. If you’re not mentally capable of talking and driving, I’m sorry about you luck in the gene lottery. But don’t try to dumb down society to your level. That said, texting is a totally different matter. It is distracting and it is dangerous. However, it’s pretty much impossible to enforce. What the new law will do is allow the police to check your cell phone records if you’re in a crash. If you were texting, your minor little fender bender can be upgraded to a felony because you were breaking the law in the process of causing an accident.By Kellee
August 5, 2009 12:50 PM | Link to this
There are already laws against distracted or reckless drivers - enforce what is already on the books. Otherwise what’s next? A law banning eating or changing a radio while driving? You know each and every one of you posting here have done these things. If the driver who is texting or talking on a cell phone, make the penalties harsher. Are they going to set up texting checkpoints like the DUI checkpoints?By Mark
August 5, 2009 12:43 PM | Link to this
At first I was against it, but then I saw an Ambulance going through an intersection with it’s lights and siren on. All cars were stopped and waiting for the Ambulance to clear the intersection, When some lady came driving right throught the intersection, talking on her cell phone and completely oblivious to the Ambulance. Fortunately, the Ambulance waited to see if all the cars were going to stop. Otherwis, there would have been a very bad accident in that intersection.By amazed
August 5, 2009 12:42 PM | Link to this
If your behind the wheel of a motor vechicle you should be doing only one thing. Driving the damn car. Not putting on make-up, texting, chatting on the phone, eating,chewing,screwing, or reading the paper. You are driving impaired and should be treated as such. This is not even debatable.By No texting, Mr Gore
August 5, 2009 12:32 PM | Link to this
Common sense, No texting while operating heavy machinery. Wake up you doo doo heads.By Trog
August 5, 2009 12:29 PM | Link to this
Ban all texting anywhere. It’s a stupid and useless habit.By Stupid Kid
August 5, 2009 12:20 PM | Link to this
It’s also the stupid a*s parents that do it.By Heavy
August 5, 2009 12:08 PM | Link to this
The-ALL ABOUT ME- generation is not going to like this.its dangerous but they dont care because its all about ME ME ME!!By Bob Huston
August 5, 2009 12:05 PM | Link to this
Texting while driving is state issue not federal.By Louise
August 5, 2009 12:00 PM | Link to this
I THINK TEXTING AND CELL PHONE USE SHOULD BE BANNED WHILE DRIVING. THE WAY TO ENFORCE THE LAW IS THAT IF YOU ARE IN AN ACCIDENT WHILE TEXTING OR USING A CELL PHONE,IT SHOULD BE TREATED THE SAME AS IF THE DRIVER WAS DRUNK (IMPAIRED)WITH STIFF FINES AND PENALTIES.By FreedomWriter
August 5, 2009 11:59 AM | Link to this
Well one way that they will be able to enforce it, is when you become involved in an accident. They will check your cell phone for texting and if you have been doing it within the accident time, you will be found automatically responsible for that accident. Should be done even if you were just talking on the cell phone also.By Louise
August 5, 2009 11:59 AM | Link to this
I THINK TEXTING AND CELL PHONE USE SHOULD BE BANNED WHILE DRIVING. THE WAY TO ENFORCE THE LAW IS THAT IF YOU ARE IN AN ACCIDENT WHILE TEXTING OR USING A CELL PHONE,IT SHOULD BE TREATED THE SAME AS IF THE DRIVER WAS DRUNK (IMPAIRED)WITH STIFF FINES AND PENALTIES.By bridgett
August 5, 2009 11:56 AM | Link to this
i agree with whoever said if you are going to ban cell phones then why not ban eating while driving or listening to music or how bout lets just ban having passengers in the car because that can cause huge distractions. i agree that txting while driving is dangerous and can cause problems. however as american people in our communities are we ready to just throw away another one of our rights to freedom and let the government make up some new law with some new penalty and put us through another tax levy to support this cocka-mamie, “rule”? give me a break… think about it they made it a law that we had to wear seat belts to make us safer and people are still dying out there while wearing seat belts. just like they banned certain dogs because they were deemed “dangerous” to the communities.. hello!… people are still being mauled by dogs and dying! you people are so naive to think that just because they make something a law it makes us that much safer… if theres going to be an accident then its going to happen… no amount of senators or governors are going to keep us any safer they are just going to be keeping their pockets that much fatter every time they nail a 20 something year old for txting while driving… where do you draw the line people? get off the band wagon and start using your brains!By Rob
August 5, 2009 11:55 AM | Link to this
Strictly speaking, this law already exists. It is the prohibition against impaired driving. If texting “impairs” your ability to safely conduct a car, then you’re driving while impaired. A prior post listed a long set of such circumstances - turning around to swat your kid, reading the paper, putting on makeup - doing any of that while driving a car IS impaired driving. Sure, it’s a judgement decision on the part of the police (that’s what they’re paid for) - but the law already exists. Rep. Harris needs to worry about the state budget crisis, not getting a headline.By ExGov
August 5, 2009 11:55 AM | Link to this
They have already banned cell phone use on Gov. Property while driving. You can use the phone hands free, that is the only allowable way. Guess what states. Your next.By ExGov
August 5, 2009 11:54 AM | Link to this
They have already banned cell phone use on Gov. Property while driving. You can use the phone hands free, that is the only allowable way. Guess what states. Your next.By bridgett
August 5, 2009 11:54 AM | Link to this
i agree with whoever said if you are going to ban cell phones then why not ban eating while driving or listening to music or how bout lets just ban having passengers in the car because that can cause huge distractions. i agree that txting while driving is dangerous and can cause problems. however as american people in our communities are we ready to just throw away another one of our rights to freedom and let the government make up some new law with some new penalty and put us through another tax levy to support this cocka-mamie, “rule”? give me a break… think about it… they made it a law that we had to wear seat belts to make us safer and people are still dying out there while wearing seat belts. just like they banned certain dogs because they were deemed “dangerous” to the communities.. hello!… people are still being mauled by dogs and dying! you people are so naive to think that just because they make something a law it makes us that much safer… if theres going to be an accident then its going to happen… no amount of senators or governors are going to keep us any safer.. they are just going to be keeping their pockets that much fatter every time they nail a 20 something year old for txting while driving… where do you draw the line people? get off the band wagon and start using your brains!By MrClean
August 5, 2009 11:50 AM | Link to this
Until they ban idiots from driving motor vehicles, no legislated ban on anything will be effective or enforcable. How about electronics that automatically cut off the ignition when the other hand of the driver (given that one hand is on the wheel) touches anything else. If the car that stops dead in it’s tracke is hit from the rear by the ubiquitous SUV/Pontiac/pickup truck that has been tailgating them, well, two for the price of one ain’t bad.By Debbie
August 5, 2009 11:46 AM | Link to this
If they ban this then they will say I can’t surf the net, watch a movie, read the newspaper, eat a meal, put on make up , read documents, comb my hair, swat my kid, scream at my mom…it will make my morning drive a complete buzz kill. As long as I can still twitter I will be okay. Opps I need to check my stocks…By Tony
August 5, 2009 11:46 AM | Link to this
As far as bluetooth vs cell phone use in cars goes, it really does not make a difference. Some people get so caught up in a conversation that they don’t pay attention and others don’t. If you can pass your driver’s test while on a call phone, then you should get that privilege on your license. It should be a restriction, just like glasses.By null
August 5, 2009 11:45 AM | Link to this
Why do we need another useless law on the books when driving while distracted is already there and would apply in the case of an accident or moving violation? And we certainly don’t need the Federal govt meddling in this as well. Wake up people! Start to think for yourselves and stop depending on any elected officials to save you from ANYTHING!By PC
August 5, 2009 11:44 AM | Link to this
“I find” that I should edit better before submitting.By PC
August 5, 2009 11:41 AM | Link to this
Thanks for the compliment ElladeVille. I was trying to illustrate the absurdity of passing another useless law. I find I DON’T text while driving because it EXTEMELY DANGEROUS, not because it’s illegal (or soon will be). There are myriad laws against practically everything any more. And another law won’t stop willfully ignorant idiots from their behavior; just reference drunk drivers for example. My point: at what point will you say it’s too much— When they pass a law saying you can’t eat in your car? It will happen; just give it time. Remember how people howled when seat belt laws started? We will soon all be driving 25 miles per hour with MANDATORY helmets in our sosmart cars when Obamacare gets done with us. Buckle up.By CONNIE
August 5, 2009 11:39 AM | Link to this
TEXTING WHILE DRIVING IS ATTEMPTED MURDER SO IS TALKING ON CELL PHONES WHILE DRIVING I WISH WE COULD HAVE A GUN AND BE ABLE TO SHOOT THE PEOPLE HOLDING UP TRAFFIC BECAUSE TALKING OR TEXT ON PHONES. WHAT DID YOU PEOPLE DO W/O YOUR CELL PHONES 10 YRS AGO WHO THE HELL WANTS TO BE THAT ACCESSIBLE.By john
August 5, 2009 11:39 AM | Link to this
…another thought. Ask law enforcement what they think about the ENFORCEMENT of such a ban. How do you do it? People already run red lights and fail to obey STOP signs. The only REAL enforcement is during a traffic stop (usually for some other reason), or postumously when the texter (now dead) was found to be texting! It’s unenforceable just like the seat belt law. What’s curious is that we demand compliance from auto drivers but motorcyclists don’t have a similar requirement. I think that a texting law should ONLY apply to motorcyclists as it is self enforcing which is the only way this well intentioned texting law could hope to work…By Go!
August 5, 2009 11:37 AM | Link to this
Yes, and ban cell phones in public places too. If I want to hear your conversation, I will get a wire and tap into it.By Ron
August 5, 2009 11:36 AM | Link to this
all text and cell while drivingBy Tony
August 5, 2009 11:35 AM | Link to this
Just as with anything else, let people pass a test and if they can, then give them a text and drive license. This would be another law taken to the extreme and people will get tickets for it while sitting in a parking lot or at a red light.By preacher,franklin,ohio
August 5, 2009 11:34 AM | Link to this
yes before some body gets hurt geter done for jesus not devil god bless you all and love everbody always love in chirst preacher.By me
August 5, 2009 11:30 AM | Link to this
while i agree that there a alot of people out there that do not have the sense the god gave a goat, i will have to say that i agree in this reguard. these days there are just to many people out there that are useing their cell phones and other devices while driving,me personally well i do not do it because, i cant walk a chew gum so to speak, at the same time and if you are this talented well good for you . it burns me up to be driveing behind someone that is driving eraticly and finally get around them only to look over and see either a phone call , a text message, or god forbid a woman putting on their makeup on while driving. and heres the reason it burns meup , 95% of the time when i am driving i have my children with me and when i see someone doing one of these things, all that goes thru my head is good lord what if they had caused an accident with me while i was driving , my children come first for me ,yes i do use restaint when i get angry but if something happens to one of children because of something like this well i cannot honestly say that i would be able to hold back from deckin someone in the face if this is the reason for the accident. mess with me ok i can let it roll off my back but god forbid anything happen to my child in this situation ,i can visually see the rabid animal, that is in any mother, come out and take over . my children are my world so ya i think it should be banned for sure .By duane eaton
August 5, 2009 11:30 AM | Link to this
Just ban cell phones all together.By flipper
August 5, 2009 11:30 AM | Link to this
To text or not to text, that is the question. Whether ‘tis nobler in the mind to suffer the texting in outrageous places or to let cops guard against it, and by not opposing it to die: to sleep.By john
August 5, 2009 11:28 AM | Link to this
If the Darwinian theory (as applied to texting while driving) did not endanger innocent people, I’d let the idiots do what they want to do; safe in the knowledge that they like the dinosaurs would so become extinct…By meh
August 5, 2009 11:27 AM | Link to this
i support better writing by the DDN staff writers.By Observer
August 5, 2009 11:26 AM | Link to this
Strawboss, I’m sorry about the loss of your Mustang. That said, I do not “zone out” while talking on the hands free device. I told you, I don’t just chat while I’m driving. It’s attend to the business at hand and hang up. Faster than talking with a passenger.By EllaVille
August 5, 2009 11:23 AM | Link to this
Ohhh, PC, you sound soooo smart! Text me next time you’re passing through this area - maybe we’ll meet up at the WhoNeedsTeeth Bar. I agree with Lily - put down the phone. Now drive.By the Strawboss
August 5, 2009 11:20 AM | Link to this
Yes it should be banned. It’s about public safety, not your alleged rights. And talking on the phone is way more distracting than talking to a passenger. How many times have you zoned out your surroundings while focusing on the abstract person on the phone? A lady on a cell t-boned me at a 4 way stop and totalled my mustang. I still cry when I pass that intersection.By nice try
August 5, 2009 11:17 AM | Link to this
How will this be enforced?By PC
August 5, 2009 11:15 AM | Link to this
Let’s ban CB radios for truckers (80,000 lb weapon), drive thru windows (driving while noshing), smoking in the car (how many accidents are caused by careless smokers), children in the car (we ALL know how distracting that can be), billboards (that aren’t right in front of your line of sight), radios (especially CD players), police radios (how can they concentrate on that high speed chase when they are distracted by all the chatter), radar detectors (all that annoying beeping), and et cetera. Eric Blair would have been so proud.By Rosco
August 5, 2009 11:14 AM | Link to this
I just saw a FEDEX driver texting while he was driving in traffic between lights on National Rd. in Englewood while behind a car CLOSE. This whole texting thing is getting out of control along with Twitter.Just drive!By Observer
August 5, 2009 11:06 AM | Link to this
Texting should be banned; using a hands free cell phone should not. Sometimes the phone is a necessity. Last year my husband was injured in an accident, and while I was driving to the hospital, I received word by cell phone that he was being taken to a different hospital than the one I was headed for! That phone call saved me time and perhaps a parking fee. I never just drive and have a casual conversation. For those who believe just talking is a distraction, do you not talk with passengers in your car? What’s the difference?By Cruisin'
August 5, 2009 11:05 AM | Link to this
I agree with Bigguy! Hang up and drive. As a society we don’t know how to pay attention to our surroundings…and any cell phone usage does not help. I am guilty of it myself. How many times do you get on the phone and then realize that you are holding up traffic or swerving dangerously close to other cars? At the very least you should get out of my lane…make the right lane for cell phones…all other lanes are for driving!By Kevin J
August 5, 2009 10:55 AM | Link to this
Any and all cell phone use by the driver of the vehicle should be banned. Even if by blueooth ear piece. If caught, mandatory 6 mos. jail and a $1,000 fine. Just Drive and Shutup!By aharddaysnight
August 5, 2009 10:52 AM | Link to this
Sarah you’re an idiot. If this law was passed cops would have to obey it as well. Just like the seatbelt law.We wear seatbelts,they have to wear seat belts. Texting while driving as well as talking without a hands free device causes wrecks and gets people injured and killed. Maybe when you finish high school and live in the real world you’ll understand that.By bigguy
August 5, 2009 10:42 AM | Link to this
hang up, shut up and drive!!!!By Tim
August 5, 2009 10:36 AM | Link to this
I think texting should carry points and a fine. It’s notabout”freedoms”, it’s about the safety of those who happen to surround this careless person.By Judith
August 5, 2009 10:34 AM | Link to this
Yes! Also talking on cell phones. I almost had a collison with another car while the driver was talking on their cell phone. They didn’t even notice!By Lily
August 5, 2009 10:34 AM | Link to this
Put the d* phone down until you aren’t driving a 2 ton vehicle. You aren’t that important that you need to be talking/ texting/surfing/ whatever while you’re driving. What part of endangering others do you not get? I don’t want my children killed or injured because you have something you just gotta say right now. And it’s not about effective time management. Put down your phone. Now drive.By rj
August 5, 2009 10:28 AM | Link to this
I am NOT a fan of cell phone usage in any manner while driving. But, I am sick and tired of the State of Ohio passing laws infringing on our freedoms. This is only for revenue enhancement. Let’s just shoot ‘em…less drivers on the road.By Peggy
August 5, 2009 10:21 AM | Link to this
I also think that if you’re going to be on your phone while driving it should be law to require a hands-free device. It’s already a requirement on govt installations.By Nancy C.
August 5, 2009 10:21 AM | Link to this
Yes- manual texting and cell phone use should be prohibited as it is in NY; you must have a hands free device. I see this as an opportunity for a speech to text application so that those who still want to text, can do so handsfree.By debbie
August 5, 2009 10:18 AM | Link to this
Cell phones should be ban while driving. If the call is important pull over.By My Opinion
August 5, 2009 10:15 AM | Link to this
Brian, I believe there is a difference between taking care of yourself and defending yourself. How does one take care of themselves while someone else is recklessly barrelling down the highway at 65 mph texting and not paying any attention to anything except their cell phone. I think that is very immature and selfish behavior.By Pappaw
August 5, 2009 10:09 AM | Link to this
Yes,by all means,it takes your mind off driving alltogether! You need you full attention to driving and not trying to type a text.I see idiots texting all the time, just waiting for an accident to happen! Yes, I said IDIOTS! They are in the same boat as people on their cell phones, yacking away!By Meds for sale
August 5, 2009 10:07 AM | Link to this
Since Sarah seemed to have forgotten to buy and use heres this morning. Good to see all the idiots posting here who usually miss the point of things. Duhhhhh!By Freeman
August 5, 2009 10:02 AM | Link to this
Please read {Animal Farm) and (1984) by George Orwell. This will answer you question if we need any more stupid laws.By charlotte
August 5, 2009 10:01 AM | Link to this
I feel both talking an texting while driving should be against the law my reason being last year I was behind a car that was hit by a man who was talking on the phone an ran a red light an struck that car which then plowed into a tree an the young lady was killed, to me that was the same as commiting murder is he hadn’t been on the phone he would have seen the light an she would be alive today.By Brian
August 5, 2009 10:00 AM | Link to this
No, texting should not be banned. But then again, I also don’t think we should have seat belt and helmet laws. If you can’t take care of yourself, it should not be up to the government to save your life.By Bob L
August 5, 2009 9:56 AM | Link to this
Also should Ban the use of cell phones while drivingBy steve
August 5, 2009 9:53 AM | Link to this
I need a new car. Just waiting for a texter to hit me from behind.By Brenda Crank
August 5, 2009 9:50 AM | Link to this
I have a hard enough time DIALING my cell phone with all the numbers on my call list. I wouldn’t dream of trying to TEXT while driving. I do talk on my cell while driving USING A BLUETOOTH so both hands are free. Talking is no different than having someone in the passenger seat to talk to…actually safer since I don’t turn to LOOK at the person next to me while driving. It would seem to me that texting would fall under “reckless operation” anyway. Why do we need another law?By My Opinion
August 5, 2009 9:43 AM | Link to this
We wouldn’t need the half the of traffic laws that we have if people only used common sense. Of course it’s dangerous to drive and text, eat, drink, put on make-up, read books, newspaper. Unfortunately, some people don’t have enough sense to come in out of the rain unless you tell them it’s wet. So it appears we need a law to tell people to just drive the car and be concerned that you don’t run someone off of the road so you can LOL or what ever is so important with texting.By J.R. Edwards
August 5, 2009 9:35 AM | Link to this
I not only agree to stopping texting but also the use of cell phones too!!!By sarah
August 5, 2009 9:29 AM | Link to this
WORRY ABOUT THE BIG CRIMES RAPE, MURDER, HARD DRUGS. AND REALLY LIKE WE DONT HAVE ENOUGH B/S LAWS? AND I SEE COPS YES COPS ALL OF THE TIME ON A CELL PHONE TALKIN AND TEXTING!! ANNNDDD SOO IF WE CAN NOT TALK TEXT OR HAVE ANY ELECTRONIC DEVICE WHILE DRIVIN THEN COPS SHOULDNT BE ALOWED EITHER. EVEN THO YEAH ITS TO SEE WHERE THEIR GOIN LOOK UP TAGS ETC ET C.. WELL U SHOULD PULL OVER TO DO IT. A COP ALMOST REAR ENDED ME BC HE WAS TOO WORRIED BOUT RUNNING MY PLATES WHICH WAS A WASTE OF HIS TIME BC GUESS WHAT I HAVE NO BACKGROUND.. PIG!!By Matt
August 5, 2009 9:29 AM | Link to this
Impossible to govern as many people can and do text with one hand without looking.By Jim
August 5, 2009 9:21 AM | Link to this
Some tow truck driver ran off the road the other day because he was texting on one phone and chatting on another cell phone at the same time.IMO, it should be illegal to text while you are behind the wheel. I don’t want to be the guy t-boned because your not paying attention.By heywoodjablowme
August 5, 2009 9:12 AM | Link to this
Has all the other crime in Ohio gone away? When that happens I am all for this. Last time I checked Drugs, Murder, Rape, Robberies are all still going on. Lets focus on the violent crimes before we worry about texting while driving.By painfultruth
August 5, 2009 9:05 AM | Link to this
Face facts, the law is virtually unenforceable. We have laws against driving drunk, and they don’t work either. Look at all that drive under suspension. Another law to be ignored by the majority…By texter
August 4, 2009 7:09 PM | Link to this
I admit it, I do text and drive and I know it’s dangerous. However, I am curious how they plan to regulate it? I think it’s got to be hard to detect. And what are they proposing as the punishment if caught but no accident caused?By TextMan
August 4, 2009 5:34 PM | Link to this
It’s the USA not some darn foreign country What are they going to do have a texting police patrol who drive around and try and catch people texting; Gimme a break.By TextMan
August 4, 2009 5:34 PM | Link to this
It’s the USA not some darn foreign country What are they going to do have a texting police patrol who drive around and try and catch people texting; Gimme a break.By the Strawboss
August 4, 2009 4:19 PM | Link to this
This is crazy! I text while driving all the tfdsdfj uyt (sent from mobile device)