The Buffalo News reported today that the Town of Amherst last Monday became the first Erie County municipality to pass a law that would prohibit drivers from composing, reading or sending a text message while behind the wheel. Violators face a $150 fine for each offense. It also reported that the Cattaraugus County Legislature passed a similar law in June. Niagara County and Erie County legislatures are expected to vote on similar proposed laws in the coming weeks.

Airline safety – Sleeping pilots or equipment malfunction?
On 10/24/09 the New York Times reported that a Northwest Airlines jet, carrying 144 passengers, missed its destination by 150 miles.