Wisconsin's long-awaited ban against driving and text messaging is now in effect. Legislators, however, left a couple of loopholes for those motorists who can't hardly wait for their messages: While Wisconsin's text messaging law makes writing and transmitting of messages illegal, it's still OK to read an incoming text or surf the Net. The law only applies when the vehicle is moving, as well. The bill that became Wisconsin's anti-texting law was AB 496, pushed through by Rep. Peter Barca, D-Kenosha (pictured). Fines for first-time violators range from $20 to $400, with 4 points against … [Read more...]
Archives for 2010
In text lingo, here’s a real OMG!
November 5, 2010 by Leave a Comment
Is it real? Jury still out on that one, but here's a typical comment from the video's YouTube thread: "Incredible. Funny. Frightening. Freeway deaths - most likely those of innocent people - waiting to happen. Huge fail." … [Read more...]
Digital dashboards & distracted driving news
October 14, 2010 by 3 Comments
Digital dashboards:A Louisiana legislator seeks to rewrite the state's law regarding drivers and video screens. HB 387 would allow use of split-screen in-dash monitors, found in a few vehicles such as those in the Mercedes S-Class (SplitView). These dashboard screens allow front passengers to watch movies or television while the driver sees only navigational elements. “Connected vehicle” systems and safe-driving technologies co-existed and co-mingled at the 2011 Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas. Toyota and Hyundai unveiled new wireless communications and data systems for their … [Read more...]
Canadians: Ban phones, save money
October 3, 2010 by Leave a Comment
The distracted driving debate rarely comes down to money, but a Canadian study finds that a ban on cell phones can have economic benefits in addition to saving lives. The University of Calgary's Faculty of Medicine says its home province of Alberta could produce an annual savings of $36 million a year by instituting a cell phone ban. The breakdown is $6 million in lower health care costs and $30 million in savings on clearing away wreckage from vehicle crashes. The lead researcher called the revenue proposition "a no-brainer" for the province. But the costs of a ban on using cell phones … [Read more...]
Massachusetts texting ban goes live
October 1, 2010 by Leave a Comment
Massachusetts’ ban on text messaging is now in full effect. Police are writing tickets, but the lucky might get a warning -- for a while. The new law prohibits all drivers from texting while behind the wheel and bans use of all cell phones by drivers who are 16 and 17 years old. The young drivers are barred from using a variety of devices (TVs, video, PCs) under the heading “mobile electronic devices.” The fines for adults are $100 (first offense), then $250 and $500. Fines for drivers under 18 are $100 plus 60-day license suspension and youth traffic school (first offense), then $250 with … [Read more...]
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