Cell phone driving bans sweep nation

Hands Free Info

The 2009 states legislation season is shaping up as the busiest yet on the issues of drivers' use of cell phones and text messaging devices. Be sure to check our legislation by state posts because they are being updated at a furious pace.

It's becoming increasingly clear that far too many of our auto accidents are caused by drivers using cell phones. Study after study finds that a significant percentage of wrecks nationwide are caused by drivers distracted by cell phones.

Hands-Free Info reports on the status of cell phone legislation and laws in individual states. Plus tips on cell phone driving safety and info on hands-free headsets, allowed under all of the states' cell phone laws.

We're also tracking text messaging, which has emerged as a second front in the war over use of electronic devices while driving. Only six states have banned texting for all drivers, so look for ongoing action on text messaging, often in conjunction with handheld cell phone bans. California joined the no-texting club Jan. 1 (pictured).

Up for a debate? Check out the site's comments on cell phones and driving via our comments feed.

Cell phone, text messaging news

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N.Y. Assembly OKs texting ban

The drawn-out drama over a statewide New York ban on text messaging while driving... Read more

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‘Death by Cell Phone’ campaign

The National Safety Council is following up on its sobering “Death by... Read more

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No more texting for N.C. drivers

North Carolina’s Legislature has banned text messaging by all drivers.... Read more

States roundup

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U.S. cell phone laws at a glance

An up-to-date listing of cell phone and texting restrictions across the States.... Read more

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Index: Cell phone laws, legislation by state

See what your state’s cell phone and texting laws for drivers require... Read more

Hands-free device tips and reviews

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iPhones and driving: Caution in order

The iPhone 3G does a lot of amazing things, but voice dialing isn’t one... Read more

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Hands-free devices for cell phones: the basics

Yes, you’ll look like an extra on “Star Trek.” No, people... Read more

Safety and cell phones

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NSC talks tough on cell phone bans

The National Safety Council wants a total ban on cell phone use while driving,... Read more

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Cell phone safety: Bet you didn’t know …

Cell phone safety would seem largely a matter of common sense. Pay attention,... Read more

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Drivers better off talking to passengers

Cell phone calls are far more distracting to drivers than chats with their passengers,... Read more