U.S. DOT’s Distracted Driving Summit: Follow it Live

Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood is hosting a summit on the issue of distracted driving — specifically, driving while texting — with an eye to marshaling support for a national ban on the practice. 

To follow the summit as it unfolds, check out the agency’s live-blog or visit the live webcast of the proceedings. The event will run through tomorrow afternoon.

ALSO ON STREETSBLOG

LaHood Announces Safety Summits to Help Shape New Bikeway Standards

By Dani Simons |
In 2010, DOT Secretary Ray LaHood mounted a table at the National Bike Summit and proclaimed, “I’ve been all over America, and…people want alternatives. They want out of their cars, they want out of congestion, they want to live in… livable communities.” He added, to thunderous applause, “You’ve got a partner in Ray LaHood.” Shortly […]

"Forgiving" Distracted Driving Won't Keep Our Streets Safe

By Angie Schmitt |
On Monday, the U.S. DOT released a report concluding that the number of deaths caused by distracted drivers dropped 6 percent in 2009 — from 5,838 the previous year to 5,474. The report was a prelude to the agency’s second national summit on distracted driving, where the message from Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood was very […]

Obama Bans Texting While Driving for Guv Workers — And There’s More

By Elana Schor |
The U.S. DOT’s distracted driving summit came to a close today with the unveiling of an executive order from President Obama that prohibits federal employees from texting behind the wheel of a government car or using a government-provided messaging device while driving any vehicle. (Photo: brainlink.org) In addition, Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood announced plans for […]

Pretty Please: U.S. DOT Asks Carmakers to Limit Onboard Distractions

By Tanya Snyder |
Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood’s signature issue has been distracted driving. He’s spent the last four years amplifying the heartbreaking voices of those who have suffered the consequences of this highly dangerous habit. The stories of the needless loss of so many people, especially children and teens, are tragic. Clearly, it’s time to take decisive action to stop […]