An article on CNN.com has reported that the NTSB is proposing a ban on all cell phone use in cars while driving. This would also apply to headset and other devices. The ban would not apply to devices installed in cars by their manufacturers (like SYNC in Ford cars, which is what I have). According to the article, 3,092 fatalities last year involved distracted drivers, which is too much for the NTSB. They say that cell phone use while driving has become the "new DUI" and "an epidemic" in our country.
I agree that it really has become a problem, but I have a problem with this myself. First off, it doesn't matter what laws are in place, people are going to break them. I mean, having a ban in place doesn't mean every single driver in the nation will stop using their cell phones while driving. They'll always find a way around it. Second, what about other distractions: makeup, radio, eating? They would also have to find a way to "ban" these because they're just as distracting and dangerous while driving as using your cell phone. Finally, if they're going to ban cell phones for us, why not ban the use of laptops while driving for police officers? I get so ticked off when I see some officers cruising down the road (while speeding of course) and using that laptop. Uh, at last check, they're just as human as we are. And, contrary to the government's belief, they can just as easily get into an accident as we can!
I think the NTSB is trying to do something good here but, until they realize that it works both ways and that cops are just as vulnerable as we are in this respect, I will not support this ban.
