SENATE BILL REPORT

SB 6101

As of March 6, 2001

Title:  An act relating to accident reports.

Brief Description:  Including information on cell phone usage in accident reports.

Sponsors:  Senators Eide, McAuliffe, Haugen, Fairley, Prentice, Spanel, Kline, Winsley and Kohl‑Welles.

Brief History:

Committee Activity:  Transportation:  3/7/01.

SENATE COMMITTEE ON TRANSPORTATION

Staff:  Jennifer Strus (786‑7484)

Background:  The use of cellular phones by motorists has dramatically increased in recent years. There is growing concern that the use of cellular phones while driving increases the risk of the driver being involved in a traffic mishap.  A 1997 study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that talking on a cellular phone while driving quadrupled the risk of an accident.

Summary of Bill:  In the narrative section of the law enforcement report of an accident, the reporting officer must indicate whether or not either driver was using a cellular phone while operating the vehicle.

Appropriation:  None.

Fiscal Note:  Not requested.

Effective Date:  Ninety days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.