In our opinion: Criminalize text-driving

There is ample evidence that talking on a cell phone results in inattentive driving. It is not that much of a stretch to apply the same outcomes to driving while texting, except that the latter may be worse because it forces drivers to take their eyes off the road as they text.

This is particularly concerning among young drivers who are more prone to be involved in automobile crashes and are more likely to text while driving, according to some national surveys.

So what's the answer to these hazards? Utah lawmakers have introduced a handful of bills that would criminalize the use of handheld communication devices behind the wheel of a car. The penalties range from infractions to a third-degree felony. Utah lawmakers should establish some sort of penalty for this behavior before adjourning in March.

SB149, sponsored by Sen. Lyle Hillyard, R-Logan, would establish a third-degree felony charge for a motor-vehicle accident while texting that results in a death. The bill also would allow prosecutors to file third-degree felony charges in the event of an injury accident due to texting or for two prior texting convictions within a 10-year period.

Hillyard's bill makes a lot of sense. Unless young drivers know that a serious penalty can be attached to this dangerous behavior, it will only persist. Penalties are needed to curb, if not eliminate, texting while driving.

Somehow, Utahns need to embrace the notion that driving is a full-time job that requires their complete attention. Cars are not mobile cafes, beauty salons or phone booths. They're not a place to multi-task. They're a form of transportation.

As Utah roads become more congested, drivers need to become more attentive to the task at hand.