Distraction-Free Driving Day

Today is 'Distraction-Free Driving Day.' according to our governor.  In order for drivers to fully understand and abide by this law, enacted in 2008, there will be over 100 different law enforcement agencies watching our roads today.  These will be accompanied by ads on various media outlets including radio, TV and newspaper focusing on the 'don't text and drive' campaign.

Distracted driving laws not only apply to those that send texts while driving it also encompasses changing your music, eating, or just plain day-dreaming.  It is understandable why distracted driving is such a big deal to law enforcement, with it being the cause in at least 70 deaths and 350 serious injuries and a major contributor to over 25% of all crashes in the state, they are trying to keep us safe.

Using a cell phone while driving is equivalent to having a blood alcohol content of .08% which is the state legal limit, and can reduce your concentration by 37%.

The law states that the driver may not read or compose a text or email, or access the internet while the vehicle is in motion or in traffic (i.e. sitting in rush hour traffic, at a stop light, etc.)  The law also makes it illegal for a driver under 18 to use a cell phone for anything while in the car.

What are your thoughts? Please feel free to share below!