Texas lawmakers have recently introduced a slew of new bills designed to increase penalties for distracted drivers in the state. The bills seek to add new restrictions to the State’s already stringent strictures pertaining to the use of cell phones and other wireless devices while driving. They come amid growing concerns about fatalities from car accidents caused by distracted drivers. Statewide statistics have shows that a growing number of accidents are being caused by distracted drivers.
One of the recently introduced bills prohibits drivers from text messaging while driving. Violators of the proposed bill will face stiff fines, going up to $400 for violations in a school zone. Several of the other proposed bills seek to bar drivers from using any wireless devices unless the vehicle is in park. Drivers however, will be permitted to use hands-free devices under the proposed law. The law provides for fines ranging from $25 to $100 and penalties of up to $200 for violations in a school zone.
One of the proposed bills called the Alex Brown Memorial Act banks all text messaging while drive but permits voice-controlled texting so long as the display is on the dashboard or similar device on the dashboard. Importantly, several of the proposed bills seek to permit drivers to use their handheld devices to show proof of insurance when stopped by police.
Most of the bills are still relatively early in the legislative process and are still a while away from becoming law. Even so, they underscore the growing determination on the part of Texas legislators to crack down on distracted drivers. To get more information of these important changes and to understand how they impact you, contact the professionals at Gant Insurance Agency.
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