FocusDriven Calls For Automatic License Revocation For Texting Drivers

On September 5, FocusDriven – Advocates for Cell-Free Driving 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. Their case for presenting this is a belief that 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 organization feels that 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, and supports victims of cell phone distracted driving and families of victims.