Distracted driving on the verge of becoming a bill

Distracted driving could cost more than just a ticket if a new bill proposed becomes law. Repeat offenders run the risk of losing their license and car registrations for a time. As of now, drivers could get a $100 ticket for using a handheld phone or sending a text while driving. Council Chairman Phil Mendelson stated that tougher penalties will force drivers to pay attention to the road and not their cell phones. The bill specifically targets repeat offenders caught not paying attention to the road within an 18-month period. The first citation would remain at $100, but a second ticket would cost the driver $200. If drivers are caught a third time within a year and a half, the fine will be $400 and their license and car registration will be suspended from 60 to 180 days. Points can be assessed starting with the second ticket, even if the offense didn’t result in a crash. The bill still needs to go through the public comment period.