FocusDriven calls for Automatic License Revocation for texting drivers

OMAHA, Neb., Sept. 5, 2012 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- FocusDriven – Advocates for Cell-Free Driving today called for automatic license revocation for drivers who text behind the wheel stating texting is a dangerous and deadly behavior that takes drivers' mind off the road, hands off the steering wheel and eyes off the road. Strengthening penalties for violators will help to curb the behavior, prevent crashes and save lives.

"Impairment is impairment," said Rob Reynolds, executive director at FocusDriven. "A drunk driver knowingly engages in reckless driving due to the alcohol impairment. Cell phones impair a driver's ability to safely operate a vehicle and the penalties should be the same for these violations – including automatic license revocation and even jail."

Penalties for texting range across the U.S. from a $20 fine to upwards of $500 for multiple violations. Given the dangers these drivers expose themselves and others to when they text while driving, the penalty for any and all violators, regardless of age, should be automatic license revocation, even on the first offense.

FocusDriven – Advocates for Cell-Free Driving (focusdriven.org) is a nonprofit advocacy organization for victims of motor vehicle crashes involving drivers using cell phones. FocusDriven supports victims of cell phone distracted driving and families of victims. Its goal is to increase public awareness on the dangers of cell phone distracted driving by putting a human face on the disastrous impact of the behavior, in order to promote corresponding public policies, programs and personal responsibility.

SOURCE FocusDriven