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12/27/2007: "Texting While Driving Law Starting Jan. 1"

The Washington State Patrol plans and the San Juan County Sheriff plan to "vigorously enforce the state's new law against sending text messages while driving, once that law takes effect on Jan. 1.

"Texting while driving was always a bad idea," said WSP Chief John R. Batiste. "Things happen too fast on the highway to take your eyes off the road long enough to read or type a message." Sheriff Bill Cumming agrees, and stated "Certainly anyone who thinks they can send or receive text messages and drive at the same time is a serious hazard to all who are on the roadway, including themselves."

Cumming added that "It is very good advise to all to begin shopping now to find the appropriate hands free cell phone equipment for your vehicle, as the same policy of vigorous enforcement will apply when this law goes into effect."




He also pointed out that "these laws have been created because of the overwhelming evidence of the unnecessary and dangerous distraction to drivers who are attempting to use these devises when operating their vehicle. We would ask all of our neighbors to be responsible in this matter."

Because texting while driving is a secondary violation, troopers cannot stop drivers if they see it occurring. But it could mean drivers end up with two tickets instead of just one.

"When we see other driving errors, such as weaving or unsafe lane changes, we will not hesitate to write a second citation under the texting law if that contributed to the first violation," Batiste said.

If a text message or cell phone call requires immediate attention, you should pull safety off the road. Handle the matter, and then get back on the road when you can give driving your full attention.

Parents should talk to teenage drivers, and let them know the hazards involved.

"There is no driver on the road skilled enough to drive and text at the same time," Batiste noted. "Especially not a teenager with only a year or two of driving experience."

It's also time to start shopping for a hands-free device to use when talking on a cellular phone. The law requiring hands free devices goes into effect on July 1, and will be enforced with similar vigor.