Texting law sends a message

ISSUE: Texting while driving
OUR VIEW: Messages can wait

Ttyl, lol, even texting someone “ur my bff” could cost you money if ur caught doing it while driving in the state of Kentucky as of Jan. 1.

You’re late for work, your co-worker sends you a text asking when you’ll be in. You pick up the phone and while driving down Dixie Avenue you reply “asap.” That will be a $25 fine, thank you very much, if caught.

Is it really worth risking your life just because your BFFL sends you a text saying they have BN (bad news)? BC (because) so many of us seem to have trouble making the choice to text safely, the state has made the decision for us. BTW there is no situation while driving 70 mph down the Blue Grass Parkway that would be worth the risk to tell your BFF you’ll BRB (be right back).

FWIW (for what it’s worth) the new law may not go far enough, OTOH (on the other hand) we applaud our state legislators for taking a step in the right direction. PLZTLME this won’t end up being one of those good intention laws but that it actually will get enforcement attention. PPL of KY want this law and we want it to be enforced BC it makes sense and it will save lives.

In 2009, more than 200 fatalities were linked to distracted driving. The total number of crashes associated with distracted driving exceeded 57,000.

Current prohibitions:

• Text messaging prohibited for all drivers while the vehicle is in motion. Fines are $25 (first offense) and then $50, plus court costs.
• Use of personal handheld electronics banned for drivers under 18 years of age. (Fines same as above, plus drivers with restricted licenses must wait 180 days to apply for regular license.)
• School bus operators prohibited from unofficial use of cell phones while transporting children.

Maybe if we have to reach into our wallets we’ll get the message: It can wait.

This editorial represents a consensus of The News-Enterprise editorial board.