Do Cell Phone Bans Work?

Two years ago, California issued a statewide ban on cell phone use while driving – a ban that has been adopted by a number of other states in recent years. Now, the Safe Transportation Research and Education Center at the University of California, Berkley has released a new study showing that the mobile device and driving law has reduced both the number of distracted driving fatalities as well as the number of serious injuries related to cell phone use.

Cell phone ban study: a closer look at the numbers.

The researchers examined crash data from July 2006 to July 2008 (the two years prior to the cell phone ban) as well as crash data from July 2008 to July 2010 (the two years immediately after the ban). They found that overall, 22 percent fewer traffic deaths were reported over the second two years and that traffic deaths involving hand-held mobile devices dropped 47 percent. In addition, serious injuries caused by distracted driving fell significantly during the same period.

Should Texas adopt a cell phone ban?

Currently in Texas, only teens are banned from talking on the cell phone while behind the wheel and texting while driving. Commercial drivers are banned from using handheld devices under federal law, and using mobile devices is illegal in school zones. While a no-texting bill passed the Texas House and Senate last summer, Governor Rick Perry vetoed the law.
This new study, which was released in conjunction with the California Office of Traffic Safety, is convincing evidence that a texting law and a handheld device law could save lives and prevent serious injuries in Texas. However, some still worry that the new law takes away personal freedom and is difficult to uphold. As Texans weigh their options, more and more states are passing similar laws.
Have you been involved in a Texas car accident that involved texting and driving or talking on a cell phone while behind the wheel? You may deserve compensation for damages, including injuries, medical costs, and other losses. Speak with a Dallas car accident attorney today to schedule a free, confidential appointment by calling Rasansky Law Firm.