Texas joined the states allowing electronic proof of auto insurance by passing a new law during its 83rd legislative session. The law, Senate Bill 181, would allow drivers to prove their auto insurance during traffic stops by displaying an electronic copy on their cellphone display screens. The officer can note down the details and verify through a database used by law enforcement.
Currently 27 states, including Texas, allows the display of electronic proof of insurance on the cellphones of drivers.
While concerns have been raised about forged electronic copies, state authorities observed that paper copies may be forged as easily, and such possibilities are remote, as the data is subject to instant online verification by concerned officers.
As Beaman Floyd, executive director of the Coalition for Affordable Insurance Solutions told the media, “if you are involved in a traffic stop, then you are going to be able to demonstrate what you are going to need to demonstrate faster … And that means that for law enforcement officers, it’s less time standing out there by the side of the road while you are searching through your globe box.”
Mark Hanna, spokesman for the Insurance Council of Texas said the new law brings Texas “into the technology age of dealing with smart phones …”
Lawmakers of Texas believe the bill to be prudent. Sen. Royce West, D-Dallas, co-author of the bill said, “It came to us through a recommendation and provided an opportunity to make use of technology t make life a little simpler for many Texas motorists.”
“This bill,” said West, “just seemed like the common-sense thing to do.”
However, the real concern, as many stakeholders think, is in ensuring that law enforcement is properly aware of the new law.
Tom Vinger, a Department of Public Safety spokesman said the troopers are being notified of the new legislation. And in addition, all police officers will have to take courses and need to be certified on the new laws taking effect each year.