Cell Phone Safety

I concur that banning handheld cell phone usage while driving will solve only part of a growing problem ["Cell Phone Bans May Not Make Roads Safer," June 26, 2001]. Using earpieces for handhelds can be just as dangerous because the hearing of the driver is impeded. Any earpiece, short of a hearing aid, should also be banned. Not only do earpieces make it difficult for drivers to hear what is going on in their immediate area, it also encumbers their ability to hear the approach of emergency/law enforcement vehicles.  If I need to make a call, the only way I will use a cell phone while driving is if I have a passenger in my vehicle who can handle the call for me. Otherwise, I will pull off the road if it is that necessary to make an immediate call.

And what about smoking drivers?  I have seen some individuals with a cigarette in one hand and the other holding a cell phone to the ear. Not only is such an individual inconsiderate, he/she is violating my right to have a safe driving environment.

Then again, I have seen some female drivers brushing their hair and applying lipstick while driving down the Interstate at 70 mph!  Where will it stop? In the morgue?

(Name withheld)

Cell phones should be banned and against the law while driving. It is just like ringing on the cash register while talking. It is very easy to make mistakes on ringing items and giving back incorrect change. Think about it.

Mary W.

Originally published 6/29/2001

© 2001 WebMD Corporation. All rights reserved.