Texting while driving - and the use of handheld cell phones or other electronic devices while driving - have come under the microscope in recent months. A number of studies have shown evidence that distracted driving is one of the leading causes of auto accidents in the United States.

One of the steps many states have taken to curb distracted drivers is to ban texting while driving and, in general, the use of electronic devices while driving. The idea is that if drivers - especially young people - are banned from texting, their attention will be more fully on the road in front of them and the cars around them. There is some question, however, over whether such bans work.

A study conducted by the Highway Loss Data Institute finds that state laws banning wireless calling or texting while driving have not resulted in fewer vehicle accidents.

The study examined insurance claims from crashes before and after such bans took effect in a number of states. According to the organization, accident rates did not gone down after the laws were enacted. In fact, the study finds no change in accident patterns compared with other states without bans on texting while driving.

Some have expressed concerns that laws banning texting while driving will be difficult to enforce, as law enforcement officials may have trouble identifying when drivers are texting.

Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood, who has been leading the charge against distracted driving, dismissed the study's conclusions as irresponsible. He has expressed concern that the study will lead people to conclude that talking on cell phones while driving is not dangerous.