New DUI-E Bill to Discourage Motorists From Using Distractions
If you tend to drive while under the influence of electronics and distractions, you could soon find yourself facing a DUI-E charge. You might not think distracted driving is very dangerous because you have yet to end up in an accident or hurt while doing it. It is not necessary for you to experience a catastrophic event to know the dangers. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more than 1,000 people suffer injuries and nine people die from car accidents involving distractions every day.
Many people are not aware of how distracted they are when they drive. Though the most common type of distraction involves the use of cellphones, many motorists use a combination of manual, visual and cognitive distractions. It is not unusual for you to see people driving while eating, drinking, applying makeup and reaching for items in their vehicles. In South Carolina, the leading cause of car accidents and traffic violations is distractions.
A New Law to Fight Distracted Driving
If the recently introduced DUI-E bill passes, South Carolina motorists who use distractions while driving could soon find themselves receiving tickets, points and jail time. Distracted driving is very similar to drunk driving because it involves endangerment, recklessness and can cause motorists to lose control of their vehicles. To help capture the public’s attention and encourage them to comply with the law, first-time offenders would receive a $100 fine. The initial fine may not seem like it is much. But to repeat offenders the penalties are stiffer. They risk $300 fines, points on their driving records and jail time.
The Penalties Pale in Comparison to the Dangers
When one considers the penalties for a repeat DUI-E offender, they may seem a little harsh. But the consequences of being involved in a distracted driving accident are usually catastrophic. People become seriously injured and lose their lives in car accidents. Distractions are causing many motorists to become careless and not consider the dangers they pose to other drivers.
Avoiding Distractions Is Paramount to Road Safety
Drivers should not become dependent on driving with distractions. Driving is not meant to be a fun and effortless task. It is a right that requires drivers to be responsible. It is extremely challenging to keep the roads safe when there are so many people ignoring traffic laws and courtesies and not paying attention. Distractions can be addictive. Motorists should make a conscious effort to focus completely on operating their vehicles safely. When they feel the need to use their cellphones or other types of distractions, they should resist the urge or pull over to the side of the roads first.