Date: Wed, 06 Aug 2003 13:08:47 -0400 From: Malcolm Mason <MWM1nopsamJHU.edu> Subject: Re: OT: Cell phones and driving
On Tue, 5 Aug 2003 11:50:25 +0100, David Taylor <djtaylornopsamoot.com> wrote: >> t. I will consider to stop using my handsfree phone in the car when *everyone* else stops smoking, >> fiddling with the radio, changing CD or cassette, talking to >> passengers, yelling at the kids, looking at their baby, putting on >> makeup, reading the morning paper, shaving, drinking, eating a >> distasting big mac, et.c. No one , I believe, has any quarrel with the behaviors, like shaving and aplying makeup, which oviously impair PHYSICALLY ones ability to contorl a vehicle. It is the distraction of conducting a telephone conversation while driving, waking, shopping ... I am sure that virtually all of us have been in the presence of others in someones home or office and what occurs after the phone rings. Until it rings we appear to be able to multi-task and remain aware of all of the others in a reasonably small group. But, as soon as the phone rings, all of us "tune out" of the environment. we appear to be come much less aware of the others present We withdraw. And, this phenomenon occurs even when a speaker- phone is used. Lets put the issue into perspective! Any behaviour which impairs our ability to drive... like drinking say... should be avoided and talking on the phone is distracting and it does not happen just occaisionally when someone has a phone in the car unless the use it responsibly. I would leave to each and all what responsible use is. But in my opinion is is usingthe "message-taking" capability of the machine and when convenient and/or necessary, pulling off and using the phone. Malcolm
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
