Cellular telephones; prohibits use while driving. (HB233)

Introduced By

Del. Dwight Jones (D-Richmond)

Progress

Introduced
Passed Committee
Passed House
Passed Senate
Signed by Governor
Became Law

Description

Use of certain wireless communication devices by operators of motor vehicles; fine. Provides that, except in certain emergency situations, the operator of a moving motor vehicle is prohibited from using any wireless communication device unless the device is equipped for hands-free communication and is being used in that manner. A driver may not be fined more than $50 for violating this section and no driver demerit points would be assessed. Read the Bill »

Outcome

Bill Has Failed

History

DateAction
01/03/2006Prefiled & ordered printed; offered 01/11/06 060160364
01/03/2006Referred to Committee on Transportation
01/18/2006Assigned to Transportation sub-committee: #3 (Carrico)
02/07/2006Continued to 2007 in Transportation

Comments

Darrell Banks writes:

I do not believe this bill should be passed, as a multi-tasker I don't believe that I should be punished for those who lack the same skills. Despite what Del. Dwight Jones might think cell phones do not make bad drivers, people make bad drivers.

David Wright writes:

Agreed, there are a great many things that could potentially distract a driver if they are not careful. Is there also going to be a law passed to outlaw driving while eating, applying lip gloss, changing radio stations, chewing gum, talking to other passengers, adjusting mirrors, inserting compact disks, waving, or thinking deeply?

Hmm or here's an idea maybe we should just focus on citing people for committing actual unsafe driving violations?

Melissa Smith writes:

Speaker phones work just fine. Also the side of a road or parking lot.

What about watching the GPS Navagator in the car while driving, isn't that dangerous. Trying to find where you are supose to gowhitout looking where you are going????

James writes:

While I do agree cell phones do distract drivers there are plenty of other things that distract us just the same. Like those new billboards that are like tv's that change constantly I've seen a couple of fender benders right next to one in particular.