In a bold move that is already drawing criticism, the National Transportation Safety Board has announced a recommendation for a nationwide ban on all cell phone use while driving. It is a recommendation only, not a requirement, but it is certain to have far-reaching effects on the national discussion over driving and cell phone use.

The NTSB Chairwoman, Deborah Hersman, defended the all-encompassing ban, saying it is the duty of her organization to ensure public safety.

“I think our charge is not to worry about what’s popular,” said Hersman. “We don’t take surveys to try to figure out what we should say. In fact, many of the recommendations that we make are not popular with folks, whether it’s policymakers or the average citizen, because we’re asking people to change behavior. We’re asking people to do things that might be hard.”

According to the NTSB, 3,092 roadway fatalities last year were related to distracted driving, though the number could be far higher.

Robert Sumwalt, NTSB member, said, “This (distracted driving) is becoming the new DUI. It’s becoming epidemic.”

This controversial announcement was discussed last week by The Metier Law Firm, LLC, on their blog as well.

Cappolino Dodd Krebs LLP – Texas accident attorneys