The impact of S2792 on state laws involves an amendment to the existing regulations under Chapter 31-22, which concerns miscellaneous rules related to motor vehicles. This updated legislation is designed to enhance road safety and reduce accidents caused by distracted driving, thus promoting public safety more broadly. By limiting device usage while on the road, the state aims to foster safer driving habits among its residents, potentially decreasing the frequency and severity of vehicular accidents linked to texting or using mobile devices.
Summary
S2792 is a legislative act introduced in the Rhode Island General Assembly aimed at addressing distracted driving, particularly focusing on the use of wireless communication devices while operating a motor vehicle. The bill revises existing laws to prohibit the use of personal wireless communication devices, such as phones, for composing, reading, or sending text messages while driving on public streets or highways. However, it establishes allowances for specific individuals, including law enforcement and emergency service officials, to use these devices while performing their duties. Additionally, a clear definition of 'hands-free' operation is included to guide compliance with the law.
Contention
Notably, there may be points of contention surrounding the bill, particularly regarding the potential enforcement of these regulations and the penalties outlined for violations. The legislation proposes fines and, in some cases, suspension of driving privileges for repeated offenses, which may face criticism from those concerned about the implications for civil liberties and the fairness of enforcement. Additionally, the expansion of definitions around what constitutes a personal wireless communication device and the exceptions allowed for emergency services might also provoke discussions on the balance between safety and freedom of communication while driving.
Provides additional exception to prohibition on usage of wireless communication device while driving and clarifies that use for purpose of navigation must be while the device is mounted or otherwise affixed to vehicle and not held in the motorist's hand.
Provides additional exception to prohibition on usage of wireless communication device while driving and clarifies that use for purpose of navigation must be while the device is mounted or otherwise affixed to vehicle and not held in the motorist’s hand.
Provides additional exception to prohibition on usage of wireless communication device while driving and clarifies that use for purpose of navigation must be while the device is mounted or otherwise affixed to vehicle and not held in the motorist's hand.
Provides additional exception to prohibition on usage of wireless communication device while driving and clarifies that use for purpose of navigation must be while the device is mounted or otherwise affixed to vehicle and not held in the motorist's hand.
In general provisions, further providing for definitions; in licensing of drivers, further providing for learners' permits and for examination of applicant for driver's license; in rules of the road in general, further providing for prohibiting text-based communications and providing for prohibiting use of interactive mobile device; in miscellaneous provisions relating to serious traffic offenses, further providing for the offense of homicide by vehicle and for the offense of aggravated assault by vehicle; in enforcement, providing for data collection and reporting relating to traffic stops; and imposing penalties.