Push for hands-free cell phone laws

AUSTIN (KXAN) - While the National Safety Council is lobbying Washington for a total ban on mobile phones while driving, state lawmakers are getting ready to consider a lesser restriction for Texas drivers.

Sen. Jeff Wentworth , (R-San Antonio), is pushing for legislation to require drivers to use hands-free devices when using cell phones in cars. Wentworth filed a similar bill last legislative session, but it failed to make it out of the Senate. Wentworth intends to file the bill once more, hoping for a different result. Wentworth said the government needs to put the brakes on dangerous distractions on the road.

"I've had many people talk to me about this issue, and I've personally experienced it where people are just not paying attention," Wentworth said. "Public health and public safety are two of the major reasons. I think it is an important thing to address."

Stan Templeton has been working at Austin Body Works for the last 10 years. A decade ago, there were not nearly as many cell phones, let alone cell phone-related accidents. Now, Templeton is seeing more and more wrecks from drivers who are using their cell phones on the road. Templeton said many of his customers actually admit to talking on their cell phones or even texting while driving.

"I'm not their insurance company," said Templeton. "I'm not the police, I'm their confidante. With the texting and driving, I've been seeing a whole lot of total losses. That's definitely where people are taking their eyes off the road."

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