GENERAL BILL by Communications, Energy, and Public Utilities;
By: Senator Detert
(CO-INTRODUCERS) Margolis; Lynn
Use of Wireless Communications Devices While Driving; Creating the “Florida Ban on Texting While Driving Law”; prohibiting the operation of a motor vehicle while using a wireless communications device for certain purposes; specifying information that is admissible as evidence of a violation; providing penalties; providing for enforcement as a secondary action; providing for points to be assessed against a driver’s license for the unlawful use of a wireless communications device within a school safety zone or resulting in a crash, etc.
The Florida Legislature's intent is to improve roadway safety for all, prevent crashes due to texting, and allow officers to stop motor vehicles and issue a citation to a driver who has been observed texting while operating a vehicle. Texting while driving would be considered only a secondary offense.
Texting is not the only activity SB 416 is set to ban. Reading texts, emails or browsing web pages will also be prohibited.
The texting ban language in this Bill is a start. We need a tough law and ban all cell phone use while driving. The roads are dangerous enough and drivers don't need any more distractions. Next to the scary drivers in general, the second most irritating and annoying occurrence while driving on I-95 is someone talking on their cell phone going 65 miles an hour or those who have slowed down to the speed of a turtle while they talk on their phones.
The Bill is still in Committee but if passed, it will be effective on October 1, 2012.
3 comments:
At a Democratic meeting before his election for the State Representative seat, I asked JEFF CLEMENS if he would introduce a bill banning texting while driving. His answer was “No, because there are so many other distractions.” I recall thinking at the time he is perfect and will do just fine as he moves up the ranks (which is why he was our mayor in the first place) – give a non committal answer and consequently, do nothing. SHAPE UP SUNSHINE! We need people in government who are proactive not reactive and self-serving.
Great insight anonymous; nevertheless, texting criminality is not enough. This cultural profit center, calling when driving, deserves true and meaningful prison time. Or else, the insurance companies should show 'responsibility' and not insure drivers who are distracted...intentionally.
Dear Anon @ 5:13 AM - YOU ARE ABSOLUTELY CORRECT!!! How many times each day do we see a driver that 'is not all there' when driving. The thought about the insurance company is stellar!
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