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. Research has shown that 81% of the population in the United States admitted to using a cell phone for texting or calling while driving. I don’t believe it’s a coincidence that distracted driving that resulted in injuries and death has increased so much.
Related: “No-Phone Zone” In Kentucky Is Taking Off
Kentucky cell phone laws
Many states have implemented laws prohibiting the use of cell phones while driving. Cell phone driving laws vary throughout the country, and Kentucky is the 22nd state to ban texting while driving. Kentucky’s cell phone law makes it illegal for drivers of all ages to use a cell phone to text and drivers under 18-years-old are not allowed to use a cell phone while driving at all. Drivers over the age of 18 are allowed to call using a hands-free device. An exception is if you are reporting illegal activity or to request medical or emergency aid. You are allowed the use a handheld cell phone when you are safely pulled over on the side of the road, at rest stop or other safe areas. If you violate this law, you will be fined $25 on the first offense and $50 on each subsequent offense, plus court costs.
Are hands-free devices just as distracting as handheld?
Believe it or not, there are critics of the Kentucky cell phone law. Not everyone believes cell phone restrictions will decrease the number of car accidents. Critics argue that hands-free devices are just as distracting as handheld phones. They believe states should ban cell phone use while driving completely. Others think that fines and punishments will not discourage negligent and reckless driving. Others believe that using cell phones while driving is so easy and not that distracting as long as one is used to it. If you can handle activities such as eating, turning on the radio and talking to the person next to you in a car while driving, then texting or calling is also easy to deal with.
Related: Using Social Media Is A Driving Hazard
As a Kentucky Personal Injury Attorney, I believe these laws are necessary. These laws are just the beginning, and they need to go further in enforcement so more lives can be saved. There is no doubt that cell phones are very useful and convenient. However, the overuse or abuse of using them is very dangerous. These laws will help teach new drivers safe driving habits and hopefully help make the roads a safer place.