District of Columbia

D.C. Council Looks at Tougher Penalties for Traffic Offenses

District of Columbia lawmakers are considering several bills that would beef up penalties for traffic offenses.

The D.C. Council will hear testimony Tuesday on a bill that would increase fines for distracted driving. The measure would also mandate a suspended license for someone who has three distracted-driving citations in a year and a half.

AAA Mid-Atlantic says citations for distracted driving are down in the District as drivers have become more vigilant. But the auto club notes that just because not as many drivers are being caught doesn't mean they're not distracted - and that hands-free devices can lead to new distractions.

The council will also consider stiffer penalties for failing to yield to emergency vehicles and mandating ignition-interlock devices for people convicted of drunken or drugged driving. 

Copyright AP - Associated Press
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