A multisource video news service that highlights nuances in reporting from media outlets around the world.

After an increase in U.S. laws banning texting while driving we’re examining perspectives on this issue.

“Everytime Chelsea pulls out of the driveway my spine just tenses up."

“I don’t feel like I’m going to get into a car accident while texting because I am a good enough texter.”

“I honestly don’t think there is anything that can make me stop texting and driving.” (Dr. Phil)

“Crash!” (CNN)

“Police in Peoria Arizona are calling this accident one of the worst they have ever seen.  That accident happening on Monday.  Officers say the teenager was 'text messaging' when she crashed head on with another driver.  Both of them were killed.” (KCRA)

“Last month in New York State, 5 girls who had just graduated from high school when their SUV hit a tractor trailor went up in flames.  Not only was the 17 year old driver using her cell phone but text messages were being sent right before the crash.” (CBS)

Those were videos from Sacramento’s KCRA, CBS Evening News, Dr. Phil, and CNN.  

KOAT-TV in Albuquerque, New Mexico – looked at research on texting and driving...

“Clemson students were 10% more likely to swerve out of their lane, and 10% less likely to see something in the road.  And a similar study in Utah found them 5 times more likely to crash.”

A Yahoo! Tech blog highlights it’s not just an issue impacting those in the United States.

A Transport Research Laboratory in the UK had similar results, finding that texting slowed reaction speed by 35 percent—more of an effect than alcohol:

“The next time you try to text your buddies “on the way, cu there” while driving, consider this: Driving while text messaging is more dangerous than drinking and driving or driving under the influence of marijuana.”

After multiple fatal accidents, 12 states have passed legislation banning “texting and driving”, and others are in the process of doing so.

But are these new texting bans effective? A realvail.com blogger from Colorado says the initiative should come from individuals, not the state.

“Do we take responsibility for our actions and all personally vow to stop texting while driving?
NO!
Do we speak up and make texting while driving socially unacceptable?
NO!
Do we pass a law that is almost impossible to enforce and will likely be ignored, dismissed, and averted by the populace at large?
BINGO!”

So do you text and drive? Do you think it should be illegal?