Don't Text and Drive

There were mixed reactions among Sinder High School students today to an up and coming law that will make it illegal for people under the age of 18 to text and drive. Some students feel that their rights are being taken away, others question why this law does not apply to everyone, and still others fully supported it. There are currently 13 states, and Washington D.C. that have laws against texting while driving. And 18 states, including Indiana, that have adopted texting laws for teens. Dr. Mary Aaland, Director of Trauma Center at Parkview Hospital says “when teenagers start driving, the first 6 months after they get their license is the time they are most likely to be in an accident.” Aaland explained that texting while driving is similar to driving under the influence. “There are studies that show that when you are texting and driving your ability to concentration on the road is decreased to the point of you being drunk.” But this new law does not only apply to texting and driving. Sergeant Ron Galaviz, Indiana Public Information Officer says, “the way the statute reads, it will be against the law for anyone under 18 to use a telecommunication device while operating a motor vehicle.” If you are under 18 and are found using a cell phone while driving you can expect a citation and a fine. Diveeta Thomeson lost her son to a texting while driving accident about a year ago, and gave her testimony at the assembly. “my son made the unconscious decision to reach for his phone while driving and lost control and lost his life. The effect it has had on me and my family is indescribable… there are no words.” Tomeson’s story was enough to make some student commit to never texting and driving again. One students says “I can never imagine putting my family in the kind of pain she is in with her son.” As the students left the assembly they were encouraged to sign a pledge to not text and drive. On June 26th Thomeson will be holding a basketball tournament to raise awareness on the dangers of texting and driving in honor of her son. For more information on the tournament, visit www.rocksolid3on3.com, or call (260) 415-4004.