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.

Small cars score poorly in crash tests
Crash tests performed by the Insurance Institute Highway Safety (IIHS) on small cars reveals many small cars do not fare well.
The IIHS has given the following cars a rating of “poor”: Nissan Versa; Toyota Prius c; Hyundai Accent; Mitsubishi Mirage; Chrysler Fiat 500; and the Honda Fit.