Some Florida lawmakers want to ban texting while driving

By Kathleen Jones

CREATED Mar. 6, 2013

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CAPE CORAL, Fla.-

Hands off the phone and on the wheel, that is the message some Florida lawmakers are sending drivers. Wednesday, a Senate panel voted on a bill that would ban texting while driving, a measure that has failed several times before. But one SWFL man said the law will save lives. Jay Anderson said distracted driving nearly destroyed his life.

"I was hit on head on by a distracted driver who was on his way to his girlfriends high school graduation. My former wife was hit by a distracted driver while power walking and left in a ditch with multiple fractures." Anderson said.

So he made it his message to stop it.

"It is a public health threat and it has reached epidemic proportions." Anderson said.Right now, Florida is one of only 11 states that hasn't banned texting and driving. But a proposed bill could soon change that. Critics call the plan "needless government intrusion."

Even though the proposal has been turned down in the past, Southwest Florida Representative Heather Fitzenhagen said the law is long overdue.  "

If passed, you can only be cited for texting while driving if you've been pulled over for something else like speeding or running a stop sign. But Jay said it is a step in the right direction. 

" We have to start somewhere often to get your foot in the door you have to expect less than the best possible alternative." Jay Anderson said.

Florida is the minority at the present time and we need to step up to make our roads safer. Having said that I think there will be challenges with the enforcement." Representative Fitzenhagen said.

Which he said is common sense. "

No call or text is worth it plain and simple. Anytime you're behind the wheel the only thing you should be doing is concentrate on your driving." Jay Anderson said. If passed there would be some exceptions to the rule. You can text while driving if you're reporting an emergency or suspiciouss activity. You can also use a GPS or navigating system.