March 19, 2008
What is Your State Doing to Prevent Distracted Driving?
A new database is out to track distracted driving legislation.
DENVER - Distracted driving is a major traffic safety issue. Although lawmakers at the state, federal and local level are examining a wide variety of issues related to driver focus, the most common concern is the potential distraction caused by cell phones and other technology in the car.
It is estimated that up to 80 percent of the more than 220 million people in the United States who subscribe to wireless services, use their phones while driving.
Many states have passed laws related to cell phone use in automobiles. Legislatures in other states have prohibited cell phone use by young drivers or school bus drivers, improved data collection or limited local authority on the issue.
NCSL closely monitors the latest developments in distracted driving legislation and has published numerous reports on the topic. Members of the media can access these reports for free, as well as NCSL's Driver Focus and Technology Database on our website. This database provides current information on the latest in state activity.
NCSL is the bipartisan organization that serves the legislators and staff of the states, commonwealths and territories. It provides research, technical assistance and opportunities for policymakers to exchange ideas on the most pressing state issues and is an effective and respected advocate for the interests of the states in the American federal system.
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