The National Transportation Safety Board is calling for states to ban all non-emergency cell phone use while driving, even with hands-free devices, according to the New York Times.
The agency cited evidence from numerous vehicular accidents where was a contributing factor, including an accident that occurred in Virginia in 2004 where the driver was distracted by his hands-free cell phone. Eleven high school students were injured as a result.
Chairwoman Deborah Hersman told the New York Times that the growing sophistication of cell phone devices, including the ability to play games, send email and watch movies, has the board concerned about the safety of America's drivers.
"According to NHTSA, more than 3,000 people lost their lives last year in distraction-related accidents," Hersman said in a statement. "It is time for all of us to stand up for safety by turning off electronic devices when driving. No call, no text, no update, is worth a human life."
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