A pilot enforcement program in Hartford, Conn., and Syracuse, N.Y., called "Phone in One Hand. Ticket in Another" has proven effective, though the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has noted that a federal program could not go into effect until all 50 states have implemented anti-texting laws -- something expected to happen within the next two years.

Of course, enforcement won't be the only strategy. From Consumer Reports:
"One area of concern that will likely receive more attention this year from the government is how to properly integrate technology and make it less distracting. After GM's OnStar announcement that users can update Facebook and Twitter through the vehicle's telematics, there will likely be more involvement and maybe even regulation from the NHTSA on how these systems will be designed and function."

Technology may not only play a role in distraction but could -- through in-car systems that block cell phone use, for example -- help curb it, as well.