RALEIGH COUNTY -
There is one major change drivers should know about before hitting the road in 2013. Our crews tell drivers what they need to know.
Starting July 1, 2013 talking on a handheld cell phone and driving in West Virginia will be a primary offense, meaning ticketing a violator could be a lot easier.
"It basically means they can use it as probable cause and cite you for that," Capt. Jeff Shumate, Beckley Police Dept. said. "At this point sending texts which a cell phone is already a primary but now telephone calls will be a primary offense too," Capt. Shumate continued.
Captain Shumate said the new law is all about public safety. And the stats back just how DANGEROUS distracted driving is.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration using a cell phone while driving increases chances of an accident by over 2,000% while drunk driving increases chances by 400%. Our crews spoke with people in Raleigh County to get their feedback on this new law.
"I don't think you should be talking on the phone while you are driving.It just is too much, it takes your mind off on what you are doing and that is driving," Deborah Allman of Sandstone said.
"I think any time we are concerned about safety of people on the road is a good thing for the community," Devin Billeter, of Daniels said.
But for some, when that faithful alert of a new message sounds, it is just too tempting to reach for that phone.
"I do read texts, I admit I am kind of addicted like everyone else is, but I try not too! I really do," Mary Berry said.
All content © Copyright 2000 - 2013 WorldNow and WVNS. All Rights Reserved.
