NTSB begs states to ban driver cellphone use. Where do they stand now?

The NTSB urged a cell phone ban for drivers Tuesday. But some states only have minimal rules on electronic devices in cars, and debate continues over safety of hands-free talking.

By Mark Trumbull, Staff writer / December 14, 2011

National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) Chair Deborah Hersman sgestures during a news conference in Washington Tuesday to discuss the NTSB's recommendation to ban all cellphone, portable electronic device use by drivers except for emergencies.

Manuel Balce Ceneta/AP

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The federal agency responsible for highway safety has thrown down a challenge to states: Tighten your laws on electronic devices in the car, or more accidents will happen.

The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) can't dictate policies all by itself, but on Tuesday its five members issued a unanimous recommendation that talking, texting, or checking e-mail while driving should be banned everywhere in the United States.

This appeal for safety comes as the American public has been growing increasingly accustomed to using their gadgets almost anytime, anyplace – on airplanes, in movie theaters, even in their sleep. And, yes, while rolling down roads in cars and trucks.