David R. Roefaro, Mayor

City of Utica, New York

04/06/10 - Don't text and drive, plz

    

Mayor Roefaro on texting while driving

 

According to a study by Nationwide Insurance, 66% of 18-24 year olds text while they drive. This increases their risk of hurting themselves and others while on the road. Most of us understand, but downplay, the consequences of engaging in this dangerous bad habit, but the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has recently released facts that will have you texting 'OMG' to your 'BFF.' They report that 16% of fatal accidents in 2008 were due to distracted driving. Currently, the law prohibits texting and the use of a portable electronic device while driving. However, it only provides for secondary enforcement. This means, State Troopers and other law enforcement officers are barred from stopping and ticketing a driver for speaking on a cell phone or texting alone. Instead, they must wait for the driver to first break an unrelated traffic law, perhaps causing an accident, or putting other drivers in danger, before ever pulling them over. Right now, 19 states have fixed this public safety loophole. The New York Legislature should follow suit.

 

For me, the answer is clear. I support the legislation proposed by Governor Paterson that would enhance enforcement of the state's ban on driving while texting. Distracted driving is a real safety concern, and with two-thirds of our youth partaking in such actions, we've got to act fast. Area leaders must take the reins and support the Governor on this issue. I know I am.

 

- David R. Roefaro-