Phoenix, Ariz., Sept. 25, 2009. AAA today announced that the motor club will work to pass laws banning text messaging by drivers in all 50 states by 2013, citing strong public support for the laws and the clear danger of distracted driving.

 “We know that taking our eyes off the road for frequent and extended periods of time to text is a grave hazard to ourselves and others,” said AAA Arizona Public Affairs Director Linda Gorman.  “It is AAA’s goal that motorists will recognize that distracted driving represents a clear and present danger and ultimately change their behavior for the safety of everyone on the road.”

Research overwhelmingly shows that texting while driving is dangerous.  A study conducted by the Virginia Tech Transportation Institute that observed that drivers that engage in text messaging are 23 times more likely to be involved in an automobile crash or narrowly avoid one.

Currently, 18 states and the District of Columbia have laws that address text messaging by all drivers. Two more states have laws that prohibit teens or other new drivers from texting while driving.  Other than the city of Phoenix, there are no laws that restrict motorists from texting while driving in Arizona.

 “AAA Arizona will take a close look at distracted driving legislation next session, seeking a balance between improving traffic safety and enforceability,” stated Gorman. “It is our goal that legislation is enacted to change these dangerous distracted driving behaviors.” 

Recent reports show that public support for laws against text messaging while driving is generally high, from 80 to 95 percent.

In an effort to expand the dangers of distracted driving message, AAA Arizona will join the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety to call on motorists and drive distraction-free for the week of October 5 - 11 as part of its inaugural Heads Up Driving Week: Try it for a week, do it for life.  By participating, drivers vow to eliminate distractions behind the wheel and sign a pledge committing to distraction-free driving for Heads Up Driving Week and beyond. To sign the pledge, view 10 tips on how to eliminate distractions and learn the facts about distracted driving, visit AAAFoundation.org.

AAA Arizona, the Arizona affiliate of AAA, provides automotive, insurance and auto travel services to nearly 800,000 Arizona members.  Annually, AAA’s Emergency Road Service responds to more than 450,000 calls for help on the streets and highways of the state as well as providing insurance, travel, and financial services to AAA members and motorists.  Since its founding in 1927, AAA Arizona has been a leading advocate for the safety and security of all travelers.  In 2008, AAA was ranked the No. 1 “socially responsible” brand by Landor’s BrandAsset® Valuator. AAA can be visited on the Internet at www.AAA.com.