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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE |
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State Rep.
Jennifer L. Mann |
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Mann: Cell Phone and Texting Ban Good for Drivers
HARRISBURG, Jan. 26 – The Pennsylvania House of Representatives voted 189-6 to pass HB 2070, banning motorists from talking on a handheld cell phone and texting while driving. The bill was sponsored by Transportation Committee Chairman Joseph Markosek, D-Lehigh and Westmoreland.
"Using cell phones – either talking or texting – distracts drivers and makes our roads less safe. This law will help make our roadways safer for all citizens and save lives," said State Rep. Jennifer Mann, D-Lehigh.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the
percentage of drivers distracted during a fatal crash has increased from 8% in
2004 to 11% in 2008.
In 2008, 5,870 people lost their lives and an estimated 515,000 people were injured in police-reported crashes in which at least one form of driver distraction was reported on the police crash report.
"Fatalities from distracted driving have risen at an alarming rate, and I am pleased the House has passed a fair and balanced bill to protect our motorists," Mann said.