Legislators Ponder BlackBerry Pileups

WSJdpatton writes to mention that legislators are taking a look at a new driving offense, DWT — Driving While Texting. Sparked by an increase in accidents related to the use of an electronic devices, this is just the latest in a string of "distracted driving" laws that are being entertained. "Some wireless industry supporters argue that statutes barring texting while driving are too specific. What is needed, they say, is not narrowly focused legislation, but a campaign to educate the public about all driver distractions. In Washington, D.C., an industry lobby group called CTIA -- The Wireless Association has begun tracking legislation, including Ms. McDonald's bill, and scratching out a strategy to counter it."

Comments

posted-from-i-94

[StarvingSE]

I-94 sucks every single day, and I see people staring at their phone while driving on this deathtrap of an interstate all the time...

Easy solution

[Anonymous Coward]

Build a sensor into the airbag system that looks for wireless devices within 2 ft of the steering wheel.

If found, do not activate airbag.

Problem solved.

Re:No new laws needed

[lucabrasi999]

This morning I was stuck behind a vapid looking blond in a Mercedes...

Great points throughout your entire post. So...was she hot?

Re:No new laws needed

[speculatrix]

morning I was stuck behind a vapid looking blond in a Mercedes. She was driving erratically,

happened to me too this morning, she swerved across my path, causing me to drop my shaver, doughnut and mobile phone, the latter fell into my coffee and spilled it!

Re:No new laws needed

[lucabrasi999]

Well, the experience itself was pleasant, but afterwards I felt kind of revolted and just wanted to get her out of my house as quickly as possible.

First, after I've had sex with my wife, I feel revolted and I want her out of the house. But, then, I realize that whether I like it or not, she's getting at least 50%. So, I get over it and try to interact. Second, this experience should prove to you that even bad sex is pretty good.

Re:Saw a lady doing needle point as she drove down

[thetroll123]

Actually this could be a counterexample. Studies have shown that people with a big spike in front of them instead of an airbag drive *far* more carefully...

Re:They will never outlaw the biggest distraction

[svendsen]

Can you put them in the trunk or luggage rack? :-)

Re:No new laws needed

[TFloore]

For some reason, I suddenly don't feel very safe...

Re:They will never outlaw the biggest distraction

[AnalogDiehard]

Until they outlaw children in cars these accidents will continue to happen.

Kids in the back seat causes accidents.

Accidents in the back seat causes kids.