What Can Be Done to Stop Americans From Texting While Driving?

Sept. 20, 2010— -- Deaths blamed on distracted drivers are not declining despite widespread efforts to discourage activities such as texting while behind the wheel, according to a new government report.

Distracted driving killed 5,474 people last year and injured nearly half a million, the findings show. That amounts to about one in eight of all traffic deaths, the same percentage as in 2008.

It's an indicator that numerous campaigns to curb texting and cell phone use while driving have failed to resonate with Americans, particularly teenage drivers.

Many states have enacted tough new laws to outlaw texting behind the wheel, and celebrities have also hopped aboard to try to discourage the practice. Oprah heavily promoted a "No Phone Pledge" on her program, asking celebrity guests to sign a written promise before her cameras.

Studies have shown that people who talk while driving are four times more likely to crash, while those who text and drive are 20 times more likely to have an accident.

Our question to you today: What more can be done to stop Americans from texting while driving?

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