NTSB Proposes Ban Of Cell Phone Use While Driving

December 13, 2011 11:27 PM

(Photo by Brendan Smialowski/Getty Images)

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PITTSBURGH (KDKA) – One law agency is pushing for strict restrictions against using a cell phone while driving.

They’re not only a distraction, but potentially dangerous and deadly. That’s what the National Transportation Safety Board says about using cell phones while driving.

Now, the board is recommending device usage of any kind be prohibited by law.

“We have also encouraged a multi-pronged approach as we have done and seen success with drunk driving and with seatbelts. We want to see strong education and strong enforcement campaigns associated with this type of ban,” Deborah Hersman with the NTSB said.

The recommendation comes after an investigation revealed a deadly collision in Missouri, which killed two and injured 38, was the result of a 19-year-old texting behind the wheel.

Last month in our area, Knoch High School senior Alexis Summers died in a crash. Police said she was texting and driving, but her family refutes that.

Also in November, Pennsylvania became the 35th state to ban texting while driving.

“It takes your hands and eyes off the roadway and it becomes an aggressive driver at some point because you’re not driving the way you should be driving,” Freedom Police Chief Eugene St. Clair said.

But the NTSB wants to take it to another level. The only allowable use of a cell phone behind the wheel would be in an emergency.