Teenage cell phone ban

[Detector]

So California joins 13 other states in passing a ban on teenagers using cell phones while driving. I like the idea, in fact I think they should be banned while driving period, but I don't see how they plan to enforce it. Like the seatbelt law, you can't be stopped just to check and see if you are under 18.

[Made in the USA]

I have to dodge numerous teenagers, BS'ing on the phone everyday!! It's a "jungle" out there!!

[Zeb]

It's not just teenagers. It is EVERYONE that talks on the phone while driving. Anyone that claims they are good at this multitask is in DENIAL.

[Detector]

I read a study that compares drivers on cell phones to drunk drivers and wasn't a bit surprised.

Drivers on cell phones reaction time is 50% slower than someone not on a cell phone. Reaction time for a person using a cell phone is 30% slower than a person driving over the legal limit of alcohol.

Worst part is, like drinking and driving, everyone thinks they aren't effected by using a cell phone. They all believe they are the exception.

[jackknife]

I think everyone is suppose to be using hands free so if you actually see them holding the phone they can surely be stopped. Everyone can be. However, I think this is less about being able to enforce it and more about making a law that might halt some teenage use just by it being a law. Unfortunately there have been an exceptional amount of deaths stemming from texting and such. I read somewhere that driving while talking on the phone is the equivalent of driving intoxicated. It will be interested to see how it is enforced.

[Detector]

Source: Study: Talking on a Phone Worse than Driving Drunk

Direct Line reported that the results showed drivers' reaction times were, on average, 30 percent slower when talking on a handheld mobile phone than when legally drunk - and nearly 50 percent slower than under normal driving conditions.

Also, the tests showed, drivers talking on phones were less able than drunk drivers to maintain a constant speed, and they had greater difficulty keeping a safe distance from the car in front.

[wordsmythe]

Originally Posted by Detector

Source: Study: Talking on a Phone Worse than Driving Drunk

Mythbusters proved that last season.

[HeddaLettuce]

I am the mother of a young teenage driver. The said driver does not have a cell phone.

I hear over and over from other parents - "we bought them a cell phone now that they are driving - we just feel safer" - HUH?

I pointed out how many kids are over the center line while texting/talking - paying no attention what-so-ever as they go merrily on their way. Safer? I think not.

I did stick an old cell in the glove box. It can be plugged into the power point and dial 911.

[TigerEyes]

Originally Posted by wordsmythe

Mythbusters proved that last season.

You and mythbusters................