State Rep. Holli Sullivan’s (R-Evansville) bill that would prohibit holding a hand-held electronic device while driving passed out of the House Roads and Transportation Committee Wednesday.
Sullivan, who chairs the committee, said nine Americans are killed each day as a result of distracted driving. It is also one of the top killers of teenagers, responsible for more than 58 percent of teen crashes. She said while Indiana has a law that prohibits texting while driving, it is difficult to enforce and drivers continue to use their devices including scrolling through social media feeds and playing games.
“Studies show how dangerous distracted driving is, and it is time for Indiana to act to prevent drivers from endangering themselves and others,†Sullivan said. “This is a simple but effective way to strengthen the current law. It provides clarity for drivers, law enforcement and prosecutors.â€
Sullivan said 21 states have implemented “hands-free device driving laws.†If passed, Hoosier drivers could not hold their cell phone or electronic communication devices while driving.
“We need a cultural shift in order to stop crashes caused by distracted driving,†Sullivan said. “Indiana will be a safer place for everyone if people put their phones down and focus on driving.â€
According to Sullivan, there will be a comprehensive and statewide educational campaign to inform Hoosiers about this law if it is enacted.
House Bill 1070 now moves to the full House for further consideration. For more information about this proposal, visitiga.in.gov.
