Texting and driving don’t mix

At times, the Community Action Center in downtown Wilmington is a beehive of activity, but fortunately this afternoon it was a quiet day at 4th and Castle. Quiet that is until the driver of a Honda Accord drove into the middle of the building and caused extensive damage.

The driver, Shavonne Wilson, is being treated at Cape Fear Hospital, but her injuries are minor.

Wilson told police she got distracted when her cell phone rang. Neighbors of the Community Action Center say she may have been texting while driving.

There is new legislation could ban text messaging while behind the wheel. The bill has cleared a senate judiciary committee. If it passes, the ban would make it illegal to read or send e-mail or text messages while driving. There would be some exceptions for emergency responders.

Lawmakers and safety advocates argue texting is another distraction that can lead to accidents and injuries. Violators could be fined up to 100 dollars.

The bill now goes to the Senate Appropriations Committee.