McKeesport – March 6,2012 – Pennsylvania’s new law banning texting while driving takes effect Thursday state Sen. Jim Brewster (D-Allegheny/Westmoreland) said today.
“The ban on texting while driving will prevent mishaps and death,” Brewster said. “While it is common sense that drivers should not be texting while behind the wheel of a motor vehicle, this new law will give law enforcement a tool that they can use to promote safety on our roads.”
The legislation, SB 314, was signed into law in November 2011 as Act 98.
The McKeesport lawmaker voted in support of the proposal when it was considered by the full Senate.
“I supported the legislation because I believe it will help improve safety on our roads,” Brewster said. “The new ban — and the fines — will be especially helpful in discouraging texting by younger drivers, since they are the age group most familiar with the new electronic technologies.”
The new law prohibits drivers from using their phones or other similar devices to read, write or send text messages while operating a motor vehicle. Texting while driving is considered a primary offense which means that a police officer may pull a driver over if a motorist is observed texting while driving.
Brewster said that the ban does not apply to motorists using the phone to make or receive a call.
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