New bill seeks to ban texting and driving in South Carolina

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Not long ago we highlighted the dangers of distracted driving and the impact texting and driving is having on accident statistics in South Carolina. To reiterate that post, drivers are about 23 times more likely to experience a car accident if they’re texting while behind the wheel. Anderson residents may be interested to learn that the state is taking its concerns one step farther. A bill that would ban texting and driving statewide will soon be headed for the South Carolina House floor.

The statewide ban is receiving nearly unanimous support and received no opposition on the committee or subcommittee levels. The bill, which seeks to stiffen penalties for people who are caught texting and driving, will be a step up from the “stripped-down” penalty that was passed last year. The new bill proposes a $100 fine for anyone caught texting while driving. Additionally, they will be fined $25 for the Trauma Care Fund and receive two points on their driver’s license. If another driver or passenger is injured as a result of their actions, texters could face between $2,500 and $5,000 in fines, as well as mandatory prison time. If a distracted driver causes an accident that results in death, the penalty would increase to between $5,000 and $10,000 with an extended prison sentence.

The sponsor of the bill — Rep. Don Bowen — believes people finally understand the dangers of texting while driving — a fact that may improve the bill’s chances at passing both the House and Senate. One interesting study revealed that drivers who text or read text messages while behind the wheel experience a worse reaction time than drivers who are driving under the influence of alcohol. This is one reason that proponents of the bill believe stiffer penalties are a must in getting people to stop.

Anderson residents would likely agree that new South Carolina laws may improve the safety of the state’s roadways. However, it is also safe to say that some drivers will continue to text while behind the wheel. And whether distraction occurs as a result of texting or some other circumstance, accidents resulting therefrom are no less tragic. People who find themselves victimized by an accident that resulted from the negligence of another driver may find some solace in exploring their rights and options within the legal system.

Source: SC Now, “Texting ban bill headed to the SC House floor,” Ellen Meder, Feb. 9, 2012

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