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Carolinas AAA Calls for Ban on Phone Calls for Drivers

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CHARLOTTE (AP) — Triple-A Carolinas wants motorists to hang up their cell phones.

The agency says it will ask lawmakers in both states to introduce legislation outlawing drivers from using the popular phones while operating vehicles.

Similar legislation has been introduced in 22 states since 1995, but none has become law. The ban has not been considered in the Carolinas.

A 1997 study published in the New England Journal of Medicine says talking on a wireless phone is as great a hazard as driving drunk. The study says the risk of a collision quadrupled while using a phone.

Meanwhile, a Harvard University study released in July says the risk of using a wireless phone while driving is unclear.

The wireless industry argues that legislation is not needed because states allow police to write citations for reckless driving.

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