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COLUMBUS, Ohio - A statewide texting while driving ban received its seal of approval from Gov. John Kasich Friday after four years of deliberation by Ohio lawmakers. Kasich, whose parents were killed by a drunken driver, said distracted driving is just as dangerous as being under the influence. "It's one thing if we endanger our own lives, but it's another when we bring tragedy to families that in all likelihood could be avoided," Kasich said. *** The new law, which will take effect in 90 days, (Sept 1, 2012) will make texting behind the wheel a secondary offense for adults, meaning a driver can be ticketed only if pulled over for another traffic violation. *** The law will also ban minors from using any electronic device while driving, with the exception of a hands-free, voice-activated GPS. The ban makes it a primary offense for 16- and 17-year-olds, meaning they could be pulled over for any use of a device while driving. After the bill takes effect, there will be a grace period to allow law enforcement time to enforce and alert the public of the law. Kasich said.
A driver causes an accident, is found guilty. No cell phones involved, no drinking involved, just a wrong decision or action. How much time do they get over someone using a cell phone, drunk driving, drugs, etc.?
(CBS News) If you're texting while driving and you have an accident - it's your fault. But what about the person who was texting with you? That question is at the heart of a lawsuit in New Jersey. David and Linda Kubert's lives were shattered in seconds -- about the time it takes to send a text message. "This is a senseless crash that didn't have to happen," David said. Accident photos tell the story. On September 21st, 2009, the Kuberts were riding their motorcycle about a mile from their New Jersey home. A Chevy truck swerved across the center line and hit them head-on. And they saw it coming. "What I saw was a gentlemen in the truck steering with his elbows, with his head down. And I could tell he was text messaging," David said. "I looked down after the impact and my leg was torn off. I asked my wife is she was ok and she told me the bones of her leg were through her pants." Both Kuberts lost a leg in the crash. Kyle Best, then 18, pleaded guilty to three motor vehicle violations, including using a handheld device while driving.
