Assembly Bill 276 will prohibit the use of a mobile device while driving for those aged 18-21. Currently in California, motorists under the age of 18 are forbidden from using a mobile device while driving, regardless of whether it is operated in a hands-free capacity. This bill expands the age group of motorists prohibited from using their cell phone while driving.
“As a mother and grandmother, I know it is imperative that we make our roads safer.” Dixon said “This bill prioritizes public safety by eliminating a major distraction that seems to impact many young adults while they are driving.”
In 2021, a survey by the California Office of Traffic Safety discovered that 74.3% of Californians identified distracted driving as one of their biggest traffic safety concerns on California roadways. The use of a mobile device is a common source of distraction for drivers, particularly teenagers. In fact, data shows distraction occurs significantly in drivers ages 15 through 20. Among drivers in this age group involved in fatal crashes, 9% were distracted at the time of the crash. According to the Governor’s Highway Safety Association (GHSA), teen drivers are 1.6 times more likely to be involved in a fatal crash than older drivers.
To make matters worse, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that 30,000 fatalities occur annually in the United States because of a distracted driver.
“This is a simple, common sense policy that will protect Californians.” Dixon commented. “Drivers need to keep their eyes on the road and away from their phone screens. Distracted driving is a big threat to road safety, and teen cell phone use is one of the biggest contributors to injuries and fatalities. This bill will take meaningful action to reduce distracted driving and save lives.”
Next, AB 276 should be referred to a policy committee in the Assembly and set for a hearing for public input.
Assemblywoman Diane Dixon, R-Newport Beach, is a pragmatic businesswoman and former Mayor, who represents the 72nd Assembly District in the California Legislature, which includes Seal Beach, Huntington Beach, Newport Beach, Laguna Beach, Aliso Viejo, Laguna Hills, Laguna Woods and Lake Forest.
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