Washington - US President Barack Obama issued an order on Thursday banning federal employees from text messaging while behind the wheel of a government vehicle or with a government device. Under the order, employees are prohibited from text messaging while operating a government car or driving their own vehicle while on government business. The order also bans employees from using a government-provided cell phone or other device while driving any vehicle.
"Recent deadly crashes involving drivers distracted by text messaging while behind the wheel highlight a growing danger on our roads," Obama's order said.
Seven US states in addition to Washington DC require drivers to use ear phones while talking on cell phones. Text messaging has been banned in 18 US states and the District of Columbia.
Obama said he was hopeful his order would encourage other states and local government to crackdown on the dangers of drivers distracted through use of cell phones and text messaging.
In September 2008, a conductor of a Los Angeles commuter train admitted he was text messaging during an accident that killed 25 people. The driver of a Boston trolley in August said he was text messaging when his train struck another, injuring dozens of passengers.
