30 Days in Jail?!

The South Dakota Senate passed a bill to make texting and driving illegal. The bill will now proceed onto the South Dakota House. You cannot read or write a text message, but the use of cell phones is still permitted. The consequences of potentially violating this law can include either 30 days in jail or a $500 fine.

I think texting and driving is dangerous and there should be a law passed to prohibit it. I think it is worse than drinking and driving because you are completely not looking at the road and not paying attention whatsoever. There is no text message that needs to be answered immediately unless it is some type of emergency. I find texting and driving inconsiderate and stupid, you are risking other people's lives big time. Incidents happen within seconds when you're driving so taking your eyes off the road is very risky. In an article (linked to "text") it said that authorized emergency vehicles were still legal to communicate through text messages. I don't think that is fair or makes much sense. I think they should be able to talk on cell phones or cb radio instead of texting. Its the same for everyone, they can get into an accident just as fast as a normal driver can. I also think the consequences for this bill are a bit outrageous. I don't think jail time is necessary, and a fine around $250 would be more reasonable rather than 30 days in jail and a $500 fine. I'm happy that the bill is proceeding on and I hope it eventually becomes a law!