Health Hazard: Texting While Driving

Texting while driving is a health hazard, say Texas physicians. In a study published last year, researchers at the University of North Texas found that texting while driving likely caused more than 16,000 road fatalities between 2002 and 2007. With approximate 22 million cars on Texas roads, physicians are concerned injuries and fatalities will only increase unless action to reduce distracted driving is taken.

During the 2011 Texas legislative session, the Texas Medical Association supported legislation banning texting while driving, which passed in the Texas House and Senate but was vetoed by Gov. Rick Perry. Texas is one of only 11 states that have not banned texting while driving. To make up for the lack of a state law, more than 20 Texas cities have ordinances banning texting while driving while several more are discussing bans as well.

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Texas Cities Differ on Texting-While-Driving Bans - The Texas Tribune