Ann Arbor council members proposing ban on using cell phones while driving

Do you text or talk on your cell phone while driving? It soon could be illegal if you're doing it in Ann Arbor.

Two Ann Arbor City Council members said Thursday night they plan to bring forward a resolution as early as Aug. 17 to effectively ban cell phone usage while driving.

Stephen Rapundalo and Tony Derezinski, both Democrats representing the 2nd Ward, said they met with the city attorney and are asking him to prepare a resolution.

Two Ann Arbor City Council members said tonight they plan to bring forward a resolution as early as Aug. 17 to effectively ban cell phone usage while driving.

Stephen Rapundalo and Tony Derezinski, both Democrats representing the 2nd Ward, said they met with the city attorney and are asking him to prepare a resolution.

“Unfortunately, I am probably one of the offenders,” Rapundalo acknowledged, though he said he's bringing forward the proposal as a matter of public safety.

Rapundalo said more people are being distracted by mobile devices while driving, which has led to automobile accidents. He noted that other communities, including New York City, have taken a stance and banned cell phone usage while driving.

Two Ann Arbor City Council members are suggesting the city should ban cell phone use while driving. Do you think it should be illegal for motorists to use cell phones?