Two bills came across the floor for the Colorado legislature which would impact drivers and passengers in vehicles traveling around the state.

Online PR News � 28-February-2018 � Two bills came across the floor for the Colorado legislature which would impact drivers and passengers in vehicles traveling around the state. Both bills failed to pass, and according to the John Smith Insurance Agency, each one would have had major influence on the safety of everyone riding in vehicles.

The first bill was Senate Bill 49, which would ban the use of all cell phones for drivers in Colorado. No one would be allowed to use a cell phone for texting or talking without a hands-free device. A bill is already in place which allows a fine up to $300 for anyone who is texting and driving if it's done in a "careless or imprudent manner." Minor drivers already cannot use a cell phone while driving. This measure would have made it illegal for anyone of any age to use their phone while driving.

The second bill would have required all passengers to wear seat belts instead of just the driver and front passenger as is now the requirement by state law. It also would have allowed police officers to stop someone just for not wearing a seat belt. Currently, law enforcement may only ticket someone for failure to wear a seat belt if they are stopped for another reason.

Advocates for both bills believe they would have made the roadways a safer place. Those who opposed the bills believe they were infringing on personal liberty.

John Smith Insurance Agency, provider or car insurance in Colorado Springs, believes everyone should take precautions to be safe out on the road. "It only takes a few seconds of being distracted to result in an accident," he says of using cell phones while driving. Studies have shown that it only takes a short time of looking away from the road for an accident to result. Fifteen states have already banned cell phone use while driving.

John Smith says, "Everyone must be aware of all kinds of distractions that can result when youre in the driver's seat." He explains that those distractions include changing radio stations and even eating or drinking can cause you to look away at the wrong time. While other activities can and do lead to accidents, none are so prevalent in society as engaging with a cell phone.

Smith goes on to say that many drivers don't think about the long-term impact their actions can have. An accident can cause serious injuries and even death to anyone who is involved. Along with that serious repercussion, insurance rates often go up for the person who is found at fault for the incident. They may even lose their license if they receive enough points. Not having a driver's license can make it difficult to get to school or work. He advises anyone to think twice before using their cell phones or doing any other activities that could keep them from being alert while driving on Colorado's highways and lead to an accident.