Cell Phones and Highway Safety: 2006 State Legislative Update

March 2007

By Matt Sundeen

In 2006, cell phones in motor vehicles continued to be a significant traffic safety concern for state legislatures. However, although phones in cars grabbed the most headlines, many state lawmakers now have broadened the topic to include a wider variety of driver distractions and potential regulations. This report provides information about cell phones and driving and the larger driver distraction debate. It examines the latest statistics and studies, details relevant laws and legislative activity, and analyzes the most critical issues.

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Contents List:

Driver Distraction and Cell Phones
Crash Statistics
Academic Studies
Public Opinion Polls
State Action
Federal Action
Local Action
International Activity
Enforcement and Effectiveness
Driver Education
Legal Liability Figure 1. Jurisdictions That Collect Data Regarding Cell Phone Involvement in Motor Vehicle Crashes
Table 1. Published State Statistics Regarding Cell Phone Involvement in Crashes
Appendix A. Existing State Laws Regarding Mobile Phone Use While Driving (by state)
Appendix B. State Laws Regarding Televisions in Motor Vehicles (by State)

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