No Texting While Driving Act Passes 19 to 10 in Senate

Phoenix, Ariz., March 22, 2010. In a groundbreaking move for Arizona, the No Texting While Driving Act, SB 1334, passed out of the full Senate today by a vote of 19 to 10. The bill now heads to the House for consideration.

“Today represents a historical milestone for the state, as this is the first time a statewide texting ban has made it out of either Legislative body,” said Linda Gorman, public affairs director for AAA Arizona. “We are thrilled that the Senate recognized the seriousness of this practice and took another step towards banning this dangerous driving behavior,” she continued.

Distracted driving is one of the biggest dangers on our roads today. Motorists who text message were found to be 23 times more likely to be involved in a motor vehicle crash or narrowly avoid one, according to a study by the Virginia Tech Transportation Institute. In addition, a recent AAA poll revealed that nine out of ten residents support a texting ban on drivers.

Currently, 20 states and the District of Columbia have laws that address text messaging by all drivers. Two more states have laws that prohibit teens or other new drivers from texting while driving.

To keep informed and engaged on vital transportation bills being considered during the 2010 Arizona legislature, visit AAA’s new interactive web site, www.azlegislation.com. Web site visitors will have the chance to stay abreast of issues that impact them, as well as engage in the debate with other online community members. Visitors that wish to become even more involved, can visit the “Take Action” section to see how to make their voice heard at the legislature.

AAA Arizona, the Arizona affiliate of AAA, provides automotive, insurance and auto travel services to nearly 800,000 Arizona members. Annually, AAA’s Emergency Road Service responds to more than 450,000 calls for help on the streets and highways of the state as well as providing insurance, travel, and financial services to AAA members and motorists. Since its founding in 1927, AAA Arizona has been a leading advocate for the safety and security of all travelers. In 2008, AAA was ranked the No. 1 “socially responsible” brand by Landor’s BrandAsset® Valuator.

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