While the state approved a legislation banning the use of all electronic devices – including cell phones – while driving in November 2009, government agencies are still sending out text alerts to thousands of drivers.

New Yorkers can subscribe to Notify NYC, a service that sends text messages to commuters about traffic alerts. 

Speaking to the NY Daily News, a spokesman from the city Office of Emergency Management said that drivers using Notify NYC “can check the message when they stop.”

Another agency sends text and email messages to commuters.  The state Department of Transportation uses its TransAlerts service to alert drivers of traffic snarls on state highways. Questioned on the incongruence of this service in regards to the state law, its spokesperson said “”There are responsible ways to use these tools.”

While traffic alerts can be very useful to commuters, isn’t there any safer way of keeping drivers informed at all times?

Source: New York Daily News, January 17 2010

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