Washington Police Chief Causes Accident While Texting On Blackberry

Federal Way Police Chief Brian Wilson found himself in a car accident on March 18 when he decided to text while driving - an act that's against the law in Washington State.

Network World reports that the police officer was using his blackberry at an intersection in his police cruiser when he rear-ended the car in front of him. The car accident, which resulted in minor damage and no injuries, resulted in a reprimand and a public apology.

Using a personal mobile device while driving is illegal in Washington State, although it is considered a secondary infraction - drivers are only cited for breaking the law if they are pulled over for another reason or if they cause an accident. Police officers are exempt from the law altogether, although Wilson admitted that he had taken advantage of his exemption.

Washington became the first state to ban texting in 2007.