Washington drivers ignore cell phone ban

By: Drivers.com staff
Date: 2009-01-05

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Washington state's laws against using hand-held cell phones while driving came into effect on July 1, 2008. As a safety measure, it is not known whether they worked or not. There isn't enough tangible evidence. The Washington State Patrol says collisions are down 11% over the 6 months but other factors could be at play – for example, less driving due to higher gas prices.

Also, police have to stop a driver for another offense before placing a cell phone charge. The number of $124 cell phone citations is miniscule compared with the 127,185 speeding citations issued during the same period. The offenders are mostly men (64%) and most tickets go to drivers under age 35.

Anecdotal evidence and personal observations from Police and others indicates that, after an initial fall-off, use of hand-held phones while driving is creeping up again as drivers realize that enforcement levels are low and the chance of avoiding traffic citations is good.

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