Pennsylvania Bill Seeks to Limit Distractions for Teen Drivers
According to a recent article in The Pottstown Mercury, Pennsylvania House Bill 330 contains a number of provisions designed to keep roads safer by eliminating distractions among the state’s least experienced drivers—teens.
If passed, the bill would first cut down on distractions inside the vehicle by limiting 16- and 17-year-old drivers to one passenger under the age of 18, unless the younger passengers are members of the driver’s family. The bill proposes to name this new law “Lacey’s Law” after Lacey Gallagher, a Pennsylvania teen who lost her life in a van accident in 2007. The van was carrying six teen passengers.
House Bill 330 also changes Pennsylvania’s driver education rules. The proposed law would add 15 hours to the 50 hours Pennsylvania teens must drive before earning a driver’s license. Ten of the additional hours must involve nighttime driving, and five must involve driving in bad weather, such as rain or snow.
The bill would also change the rules for using cell phones or other wireless devices on the road. Teenagers would be prohibited from using any wireless device while driving, unless they are contacting someone for help in an emergency. Adults will also be prohibited from using wireless devices while driving. However, the bill allows adults to use hands-free headsets to talk on cell phones, but prohibits teens from using the devices when behind the wheel.
Distracted driving is a major source of serious car accidents, especially among inexperienced drivers. A moment’s distraction on the road can lead to serious injury or even death. If you have been injured in a crash caused by a distracted driver, you need the help of an experienced Pennsylvania accident lawyer. The attorneys at Cherry Fieger & Marciano, LLP have the experience to fight for the compensation you deserve. To schedule a free consultation, call 888-684-7192 today.
