11/1/07-An effort in the statehouse is intended to curb drivers’ text messaging in the state.
Rep. David Campbell, D-Nashua, has filed the paperwork for a bill that would ban drivers from using both hands to read, type or send text messages on an electronic wireless device, such as a BlackBerry. It also would ban playing video games while driving.
Hands-free devices wouldn’t be included in the ban.
Attempts to rein in the practice of using electronic wireless devices while driving have picked up steam following the release of a Nationwide Mutual Insurance survey that found one in five drivers texting while driving. That number nearly doubles for drivers aged 18 to 27.
New Hampshire law already prohibits negligent driving. The ban covers any driving behavior that could result in injury to others or property damage. However, it doesn’t specifically address the use of cell phones while at the wheel.
The effort can be considered by lawmakers during the regular session that begins in January.