Hot Pursuit

As we all know, life is all about making the right choices. One of the areas where this is most imperative comes from operating a motor vehicle, especially when personal safety is at risk.
Beginning this week, Minnesota is sinking some teeth into its texting law with higher fines. Drivers who repeatedly choose texting over safety will be nailed with a $225 fine for second and subsequent violations of the texting while driving law. Prior to the law change, the penalty had been $135.
It is illegal for drivers to read, compose or send texts and emails, and access the web while the vehicle is in motion or a part of traffic. That includes sitting at a stoplight or stop sign. 
Texting has become an epidemic on Minnesota roadways. As you’re out and about, I’m sure you have noticed drivers looking at their phones or drifting out of their lane. At times, drivers are downright oblivious to the dangers they present to not only themselves, but others as well. 
There are several ways this problem is illustrated. State statistics show that over the last five years, 19 percent of all traffic fatalities and serious injuries were distraction-related. Just last year, driver inattention or distraction contributed to 61 deaths and more than 7,000 injuries on Minnesota roads. 
Another way is the number of texting-while-driving citations has skyrocketed. Since the texting law went into effect in 2010, citations have gone up nearly 300 percent. In 2010, there were 847 citations issued by police officers and last year around 3,200 were given out. 
“We all value the freedom and privilege of driving but we also value our lives,” said Sen. Jim Carlson, author of the bill. “The privilege of driving comes with tremendous responsibility. The law we passed is designed to help keep us safe when drivers choose to focus on their phones and not the road.”
There are ways motorists can avoid the temptation of distractions while they should be focused on driving. Most importantly, put the cell phone down, turn it off or place it out of reach. When it comes to music and other controls, pre-program radio stations and arrange music in an easy-to-access spot. If you’re traveling with children, teach them the importance of good behavior in a vehicle and model proper driving behavior.
As for texting, it’s important to stop and then text if needed. Don’t get caught texting while driving. Better yet, don’t even try. 
If you’re foolish enough to do it, the consequence could be much worse than that fine. It could cost your life. Or someone else’s. I don’t think you would want to live with such guilt for the rest of your life.
Traffic laws are put into place for good reason. The stories we often hear or read in the news of those tragically impacted by distracted driving cannot be ignored. A strong message has been sent that texting and driving won’t be permitted. Won’t you go in hot pursuit of making the right choice?