Texting ban for drivers starts Aug. 1

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July 31, 2012

Texting ban for drivers starts Aug. 1

By David Palmer The Cullman Times The Cullman Times Tue Jul 31, 2012, 03:10 PM CDT

Alabama’s ban on texting while driving takes effect Wednesday, but there’s more involved with the new law than punching messages on a cell phone.

The law also spells out that using a GPS navigation device will remain legal, but programming it while driving becomes an offense.

Alabama’s new law specifically prohibits using a wireless device to write, send, or read a text message, instant message or e-mail while operating a motor vehicle. The fine for violating the law is $25 for a first-time offense, $50 for a second offense and $75 for a third or subsequent offense. Also, for each offense, a two-point violation would be placed on the offender’s driving record.

“I think it’s long overdue. That’s my personal feeling. We’ll be the 38th state to go along with the law,” said Cullman County Sheriff Mike Rainey.

Rainey said he also understands the law prohibits anyone under 18 years old from using a cell phone for any purpose while driving.

Cullman Police Chief Kenny Culpepper said officers have come across wrecks and traffic violations where texting and other uses of cell phones played a role in the incidents.

“It’s becoming a problem for everyone,” Culpepper said. “Even in law enforcement we have cell phones and computers in the cars and we’re trying to be safe and use all of this. It’s an overload for everyone, but this law should help people to stop and think.”

Cullman police officers will make traffic stops when they suspect a driver is texting.

“It’s going to be like when the seatbelt law came about. It will be a matter of observation for the officers. You can still talk on the phone, but not text,” Culpepper said.

Rainey said the law provides law enforcement officers a much-needed tool to turn motorists’ attention to safety.

“We see it all the time and now we can do something. They’re pretty easy to spot. Having the law in place could save lives. We’re going to do our part,” Rainey said.

According to data provided by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, texting while driving creates a crash risk that is 23 times greater than when a driver is not distracted. Also, sending or receiving a text message takes a driver’s eyes from the road for an average of 4.6 seconds. For a driver going 55 miles per hour, that’s the equivalent of driving the entire length of a football field.

* David Palmer may be contacted at dpalmer@cullmantimes.com or 256-734-2131, ext. 213.

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Texting ban for drivers starts Aug. 1

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