Out Of Their Minds: January

Community Comments

On the Road Cell Phone Distraction:
Is Hands-free Legislation Necessary

By Rich Ehisen

We’ve all seen them — people who talk on their cell phones while they drive. Heck, most of us do it ourselves on a regular basis. For many, it’s simply another way of staying in touch. But most of us also have experienced cell phone-distracted drivers trying to steer and turn their vehicle with one hand, the other holding a cell phone pressed firmly to their ear. 
    More than a dozen countries already bar the use of handheld cell phones while driving, as do the states of New York and New Jersey. California Assemblyman Joe Simitian, D-Palo Alto, has tried unsuccessfully to win approval for legislation that would require all drivers to use a hands-free device with cell phones while driving. Opponents argue that while cell phones are a distraction, they’re no more so than anything else that diverts a driver’s attention and should not be singled out for legislation. The issue is debated here by Assemblyman Simitian and Sprint spokesperson Stephanie Walsh.

Joe Simitian

Prosper: Why should California pass legislation requiring people to use a hands-free device when talking on their cell phones while driving?
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