Proposed Kentucky Bill Would Ban All Cellphone Use While Driving

Cell phones are a major driving distraction that contributes to injuries and death. Kentucky lawmakers have proposed a bill to help reduce injuries and fatalities by banning cell phone use when someone is driving. It’s possible the bill will be brought to a vote in 2020.

Kentucky wouldn’t be the first state to institute a hands-free law in the United States. Georgia and Tennessee are two states where drivers cannot use their cellphones. Because of the positive results in other hands-free states, House Bill 255 has support from lawmakers. Hands-free states have seen a decrease in accidents and fatalities.

The bill was introduced in January. Currently, the bill still needs to be read and reviewed by committee. Lawmakers are anticipating both positive and negative reactions. While the negatives mainly surround the idea that the law might bother some people, those who support this bill are confident the positives greatly outweigh the negatives because this bill could potentially save lives.

This bill was discussed in the past, but there’s reason to push this kind of bill now. While Kentucky banned texting and driving in 2010, there are still instances of blatant phone use behind the wheel. There were also loopholes, such as drivers talking on their phones instead of texting.

An incredibly dangerous example of cell phones as distractions was demonstrated when a semi-truck driver was watching videos on their phone while driving. They hit another vehicle and killed the driver. This, among other similar kinds of accidents, is why lawmakers are pushing this House Bill 255 for Kentucky. One lawmaker said that driving is a privilege, and with that comes responsibilities.

The committee could read the bill by the end of February.

Distracted driving takes lives every year. If you were injured or if you lost a loved one because of a distracted driver, you can seek justice. Thomas Law Offices can help you file a claim after a crash to hold the other party responsible for their actions. Give our office a call today.