Cell phone driving laws

If you text message more than you watch the road, youre in good company. According to the Governors Highway Safety Association all of Louisiana drivers including teen agers, and even bus drivers can talk on the phone and drive. Jason Waldrop, an Ark-La-Miss cell phone user, said, "Its a sign of the times now-a-days everyone has to do it but still I feel its not really the safe thing to do." Activities such as texting while driving can be quite dangerous and in fact, its not illegal in Louisiana. Sergent Tim Zeigler, Steet Crimes Unit Supervisor of the West Monroe Police Department said he enjoys the freedoms of Louisianas laws but some motorists carelessness is getting out of hand. He said, "Cell phone usage while driving your car causes wrecks. Because it takes your attention off your driving and youre more apt not to see a danger in front of you." Despite the possible dangers, only five states have complete bans of cell use while driving. Only two states have text messaging bans, while fourteen states prohibit bus drivers from chatting and driving. "You cant muli-task, drive a car, and talk on the cell phone in a safe manner," Zeigler said. Justin Young, an Ark-La-Miss resident said he agrees. Young said, "I think you should be arrested for driving with a cell phone or texting with your cell phone because young people cant drive now a days anyway." Some residents say they dont competely agree. Lindsay Young said, "I feel it is the persons choice whether to talk and whether to be safe [as long as you] watch out for other drivers." Louisiana is still waiting on legislation for this issue. Zeiglers advice: If you are going to use your phone and drive make sure its not in a high traffic area or in intersections. -Candace Miers, NBC 10 News