I have been referred to this site (LINK) and have looked around. It seems like a great source of information on the subject. I did notice that they put up a map of the USA and ommitted some states where texting while driving is illegal (i.e. Georgia). It may just be an older map so if you do not see your state on the list, you may want to update the information.
Effective July 1, 2010, it is illegal for anyone (adults included) to text while driving. There is no exception for when the car is stopped at a traffic signal, in traffic, etc. The important point that might be missed is that if the driver is under age 18, it is also illegal to talk on a cellular telephone. The media has explained the no texting law in some detail but there has been less coverage on the cellular issue for those under 18. I am not aware of any exception for a “hands free” device and I believe the restriction applies to being involved in a cellular telephone call in any manner.
Law enforcement officers have explained that they think it may be tough to enforce (a fact that was also discussed by Governor Perdue at the time he signed the bill) but teens need to be aware of the ban. There are numerous Web-based photos, videos, etc of tragedies which have occurred as a result of texting while driving but, as always, teens seem to think those things will never happen to them.
Recently, the dangers of “sexting” became apparant in an Atlanta school. Click here to read the AJC article on the incident. The issue has been prominent in the news for several years but most teens believe that this can never happen to them. Most adults believe that their children would never do such a thing. As we have repeatedly stated, the advances in technology usually cause a delayed response from lawmakers who try to react to cases where technology is misused.
If you are addressing a sexting issue in your home, remind your teens of this fact: everyone has been involved in a romantic relationship that ended badly. If the ex is in possession of a sexting message, he/she may well use that message against you in the aftermath of the breakup. AND, once such a message is sent, you are no longer in control of where that message ends up.
Recently District Attorney Ashley Wright spoke to a local gathering about her concerns and observations with teens and the Internet. Click HERE to read the article from the Chronicle.
From time to time, we will post links to web sites that discuss issues that are related to TY101 issues. Please do not assume that these links are endorsed or supported by TY101. Such sites may contain facts that are incorrect or support “causes” that we do not support. Parents are the best filters of information and whether you find such information to be reliable is a decision that YOU must make.
We are in a society that is heavily reliant on computers. That fact is particularly true for teens. A relationship (or break-up) between kids is not a reality unless it is “Facebook Official.” When TY101 began in 2006, I was a parent that was opposed to social networking spaces such as MySpace, Facebook and similar spaces. However, in a lesson hard learned, I realized what a great resource such pages can be for parents. I made a deal with my children–you give me the username and password and I can get on and look around whenever I want. It is really amazing what you can learn about your child and their friends from such “research.”
WARNING: Do not abuse this arrangement with your child. You will learn much more if you are patient than if you lose it because of language the kids use or the manner in which they speak to one another. Be patient and keep an open mind. (I am very thankful my parents did not know everything I did/said–how about you?)