New Laws Hope To Make Driving Safer in Utah
KSL News reports that 319 new laws have gone into effect in Utah today, May 12, 2009. Two of these laws in particular are aimed at cracking down on traffic safety throughout the entire state. The first law aims at reducing distracted driving by banning text-messaging while driving a vehicle. This new law will enact strict consequences for drivers caught text-messaging while behind the wheel. According to research, texting reduces a driver’s reaction time by 35%. It is estimated that one-fifth of all adult drivers send text messages while driving. While Legislators hope this new ban will reduce distracted driving, law enforcement officials worry it will be difficult to enforce. Police officers may find it difficult to know whether a driver is text-messaging or simply scrolling through the phone’s contact list to make a call.
Legislators also passed a new law that enforces stricter punishments for repeat drunk drivers. Before the new law was passed, repeat offenders simply had their cars impounded. They only had to pay the impound fee to get their cars back. However, the new law will force repeat offenders to forfeit their cars to the state. Studies show that one-third of DUI offenders have been previously convicted of drunk driving at least once. This law is one of several methods used around the country to crack down on repeat DUI offenders. To read more about what lawmakers are doing to curb the rising problem of repeat drunk drivers, visit the Christensen Law Firm’s online library and read the article “Ignition Breath Tests Could Save Lives.”
If you have been injured in a Utah car accident, you likely have many questions about your legal options. Kenneth Christensen, founder of the Christensen Law Firm, has authored the Utah accident book entitled “Seven Biggest Mistakes That Can Wreck Your Utah Accident Case.” This book answers many of the questions Utah accident victims face, debunks common myths about accident cases, and gives crucial advice on how to deal with insurance adjustors. To request your FREE copy of the Utah accident book, simply log onto www.utahaccidentbook.com.
