PHOENIX -- A new study found a nearly unanimous opinion to ban text messaging while driving.

According to a CBS News/New York Times poll taken in October, 97 percent of Americans said the practice should be illegal.

Fifty-two percent of people said the punishment should match the punishment for drunken driving.

"I definitely think it should be illegal," said motorcyclist Ralph Griffey.

The issue that many have is how to enforce such a law.

"They wouldn't know if someone was really text messaging until they crashed," said motorist Greg Bayhem.

President Barack Obama recently signed legislation banning federal employees from text messaging while driving.

Nevertheless, text messaging while driving is only illegal in 18 states.