White Lake-Highland Patch Readers Discuss New Teen Cell Phone Law

A new Michigan law, known as "Kelsey's Law" which prohibits teen drivers from using a cell phone while driving a car, goes into to effect Thursday.

According to the bill signed into law earlier this year, if any driver with a temporary drivers permit or a level 1 or 2 graduated license - meaning any driver under the age of 17 - is stopped for a moving violation, he or she could be cited with a civil infraction for using a cell phone. 

Because the violation is a civil infraction, local municipalities will determine the fine.

The legislation was named for a 17-year-old Sault Ste. Marie girl who died in a car crash in 2010 while she was using her cell phone.

Readers of the White Lake-Highland Patch Facebook page were asked about their thoughts of law. Here are some of the responses:

• Ashley Marie Payne: I don't think this should be in effect for teens only. I know plenty of adults and have been in 2 accidents caused by fully grown adults because of their cell phones. Yes, teenagers are responsible for accidents as well, but if adults want to say they don't use their phone while driving, they're lying.
• Trina Todoroff Zschering: I think trying to do something about it, is better than doing nothing at all. But I do agree, it should be enforced for ALL drivers.
• Matt Leonhardt: Saying a more experienced driver can deal with the distraction of a cell phone is like saying someone who drinks and drives more frequently is better at it.
  This is clearly age discrimination and I don't understand how this hasn't been a bigger issue.
• Charlie Bradfield: This is needless harassment of innocent civilians by the government and a great example of do-gooder politicians who don't understand the society they are unfortunately in charge of. It also lays the ground work for a cell-phone ban on ALL drivers.

Share your thoughts in the comments section below.