Texting while Driving Ban Takes Effect March 8

Governor Corbett signed legislation in November making Pennsylvania the 35th state to ban texting while driving. Beginning Thursday, March 8th, 2012, this statewide ban will go into effect. The texting ban will give police the authority to charge someone caught texting while driving with a primary offense and a $50 fine.

“According to statistics released by the Governor’s Office, distracted driving was blamed for 13,790 crashes and 66 deaths in Pennsylvania in 2010, and the new law aims to reduce those statistics,” said Margaret Rivello, Chester County Health Director.  “No text is worth a life.”

The new law specifically prohibits drivers from using an interactive wireless communication device to send, read or write a text-based message. This includes text messages, instant messages, email or other written communication. While talking on a handheld phone was originally part of the texting ban legislation, it was not passed in the final document. State lawmakers are expected to address the use of handheld phones while driving in 2012.

    The Chester County Health Departments reminds residents of the following safety tips while driving:

• Don't be tempted - turn off your cell phone while driving.
• If you must call or text while on the road, pull over in a safe manner and stop.
• Place your cell phone in the trunk of the car so you won’t be tempted to reach for it.
• Parents should review their teen's cell phone bill with them to determine if they are texting at times when they are likely driving.