Obama administration calls distracted driving an “epidemic”

WASHINGTON (AP) - The Obama administration is calling distracted driving an “epidemic” that seems to be getting worse every year.
   
Officials have started a two-day meeting in Washington to find ways to reduce the use of mobile devices behind the wheel.  The Transportation Department opened the talks by reporting that nearly 6,000 people were killed and a half-million injured last year in vehicle crashes connected to driver distraction.
   
Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood says distracted driving is a “menace to society.“ He says he’ll offer recommendations on Thursday that could lead to new driving restrictions.

LaHood says the government will address the issue by drawing lessons from efforts to reduce drunken driving and encourage motorists to wear seat belts. He urged a “combination of strong laws, tough enforcement and ongoing public education.“