The US Department of Transportation reported an estimated 6,000 deaths and half-a-million injuries due to distracted driving in 2008 alone.  In May, Wisconsin became the 25th state to pass a texting ban, which goes into effect December 1st, 2010.

Wisconsin currently has a law against driving while distracted.  The law specifies that “no driver shall be engaged or occupied as to interfere with the safe driving of a motor vehicle.”

On May 5th 2010, Wisconsin Governor Jim Doyle signed Assembly Bill 496 into law.  The bill modified existing Wisconsin laws regarding distracted driving.  The new law prohibits “the operation of a motor vehicle while composing or sending an electronic text message or an electronic mail message.” 

First-time violators face fines of $20 to $400, along with four points on their driving records.  Second-time violators face fines of $200 to $800.  The law is primary, meaning police officers can stop motorists suspected of this offense alone. 

Exceptions will apply for emergency responders, those texting in an emergency, or licensed amateur radio operators.  The law also excludes hands-free or voice-operated devices from the texting ban.

Click here to view cellphone laws by state.

Information from the Wisconsin Department of Transportation