Arizona Bans Cell Phone Use By Teen Drivers
Gov. Doug Ducey signed a bill that will help make Arizona roads safer.
This historic step by the governor concludes a decade-long effort by AAA to help reduce distracted driving by teenagers in Arizona.
Arizona teen drivers will be prohibited from using wireless communication devices, such as a cell phone, while operating a vehicle during the permit and first six months of the Graduated Driver License Law (GDL) phases, except for in emergency situations, effective July 1, 2018.
"This law marks a tremendous milestone for traffic safety in Arizona," said Tim Condon, president and CEO of AAA Arizona. "On behalf of more than 900,000 members in Arizona, AAA would like to thank Gov. Ducey for recognizing the need for this life-saving legislation and acting quickly to help ensure public safety."
In addition to thanking Gov. Ducey for signing this bill into law, AAA is also appreciative of the bill's sponsor, Sen. Karen Fann (R-Prescott), and state leaders, including Rep. J.D. Mesnard, for their leadership on this issue.
Teen drivers have the highest crash rate of any other age group in the United States. They are also among the most avid users of wireless communication devices. According to the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety, more than half of teen drivers report using a cell phone while driving, a dangerous behavior for both the driver and everyone they share the road with.
AAA Arizona was a leading advocate for Arizona's GDL law, which phases in certain driving privileges for novice drives as they gain experience. According to a recent poll, almost 9 in 10 Arizonans showed support for strengthening the state's GDL laws to include prohibiting wireless communication devices, such as a cell phone, for the youngest and most inexperienced drivers.
AAA is the best roadside assistance solution, offering the fastest response times and highest satisfaction rates in the industry. The club responds to more than 550,000 calls for roadside assistance in Arizona every year. AAA Arizona provides automotive, insurance and travel services to more than 900,000 Arizonans. The club also provides discounts, financial services, driver training resources and is a leading advocate for the motoring and traveling public.
Editor's note: Ms. Donati is a spokeswoman for AAA.
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