The Schafer Law Office

Cell Phone Use While Driving

The use of cell phones while driving is rampant despite its danger and risk. You can't drive down the road anywhere in Kentucky without seeing someone on a cell phone. Recent research shows that 81 percent of the population of the United States admit the use of Cellular Phones for texting while driving. I don't believe it is a coincidence that distracted driving that resulted in injuries and death has reached epidemic proportions.

Many U.S. states have implemented laws prohibiting the use of cell phones while driving. Cell phone driving laws vary throughout the country.  Kentucky is the 22nd state to ban texting while driving.

Kentucky new law makes it illegal for drivers of all ages to use a cell phone while the vehicle is in motion unless they were using a hands-free device like Bluetooth. An exception is provided to report illegal activity or to request medical or emergency aid.    It also allows the use of hand-held cell phones for individuals who are pulled over on the side of the road, at rest stops or other safe areas.

Another part of Kentucky's law places a complete cell phone and texting ban on drivers under 18 years old who have an intermediate or operator's permit. An emergency exception allowing teen drivers to use cell phones to call for medical help or contact a police. They may also use phones while the vehicle is stopped.

Kentucky violators will be liable for fines of $25 on the first offense and $50 on each subsequent offense, plus court costs.

Believe it or not there are critics of this law in Kentucky. Not everyone believes that these cell phone restrictions will decrease the number of Kentucky motor vehicle accidents.  Critics argue that hands-free devices are as distracting as hand-held phones and that states should ban cell phone while driving completely. Others think that these fines and punishments are insignificant to discourage negligent and reckless driving. 

Others believe that using cell phone while driving is so easy and not that distracting as long as one is used to it.  If one can handle activities such as eating, turning on the radio, talking to the person next to you in a car while driving, then texting or calling while using cell phones is also  easy to deal with.  Do you agree?  I don't think so.

Personally speaking, as a Personal Injury Attorney here in Louisville, Jefferson County Kentucky, I am a proponent of these laws.  Of course, I love life, I want to save life and I don't like to ruin any life. These laws are just a beginning and need to go further in punishment and enforcement.  There is no doubt that cell phones are very useful and convenient.  However the overuse or abuse of using it is very dangerous. 

With the implementation of these bills, surely the administration will continue their efforts to reduce fatalities on Kentucky roadways.  These provisions will help teach the beginning drivers safe driving habits.  Safety is the top priority of the government.