Safer roads for US state of Washington?

The US state of Washington is introducing tougher rules against cell phone use while driving. The state also now has a tough line against drivers sending texts while at the wheel. The new rules have been commended by US transportation secretary Ray LaHood. From now on using a cell-phone without a hands-free kit or sending a text while at the wheel is a primary offense in Washington State. This new law strengthens Washington's 2008 ban which allowed law enforcement officials to ticket drivers caught using their phones if they were pulled over for another offense. LaHood has been pushing through tougher enforcement on drivers using cell phones. According to research by the National Highway Traffic Administration (NHTSA), nearly 6,000 people died in 2008 in crashes involving a distracted or inattentive driver, and more than half a million were injured. In 2009, more than 200 distracted driving bills were considered by state legislatures and legislative activity is expected to remain strong in 2010.  Earlier this year, LaHood unveiled sample legislation developed by NHTSA to be used as a starting point for crafting new state laws to prohibit texting while behind-the-wheel. And president Obama also directed federal employees not to engage in text messaging while driving government-owned vehicles or with government-owned equipment at the end of 2009.