The new distracted driver law took effect on Sept. 12. This new law covers driver distraction while using cell phones, texting or any action that would cause a person to be distracted.
The meaning of "distract" is: to divert attention or mind to a different object.
The new law forces police officers to give warnings instead of citations when a distraction violation is noted. If arrested and appearing in court with a lawyer, the charge would be dismissed by the judge, unless proven guilty of causing an accident.
I believe the new Maine law is good for lawyers but difficult for police officers to enforce. After a fatal accident, it is a little late for this law to be enforced.
The law should be simplified and ban cell phones, texting and hand-held games while operating a motor vehicle.
Richard A. McInnis, Rumford
Report a correction
In order to make comments, you must verify your account.
In order to comment on SunJournal.com, you must use your real name and include the town in which you live in your profile. A member of our staff will call you to verify this information. To join in, fill out your user profile completely and check the box "please verify my status." We'll get back to you within one business day to verify your account.
Login or create an account here.
Our policy prohibits comments that are:
- Defamatory, abusive, obscene, racist, or otherwise hateful
- Excessively foul and/or vulgar
- Inappropriately sexual
- Baseless personal attacks or otherwise threatening
- Contain illegal material, or material that infringes on the rights of others
- Commercial postings attempting to sell a product/item
If you violate this policy, your comment will be removed and your account may be banned.