Cell Phones in Cars Called Into Question

I find it difficult to believe your May 27 editorial, “Sense and Cell Phones.” You compare the flagrant use of cell phones with car radios and CD and tape players. The latter items are listening devices, whereas a cell phone is an interactive tool that requires one hand (in most cases) and a considerable amount of the driver’s attention. On countless occasions, I have seen drivers trying to navigate turns, lane changes or freeway approaches while engrossed in conversation with one hand on their cell phone.

To think that these same drivers by showing self-discipline will become more responsible individuals by some unexplainable force that will make common sense a little more common is so naive. We need strong laws to stop this extremely dangerous practice. Please don’t give these people an excuse to continue by soft-pedaling this unsafe driving mode.

Ira S. Gewant

Manhattan Beach

The discussion about whether talking on cell phones while driving should be made illegal could be expanded: Talking to other passengers in the car can be distracting; children do distract drivers, therefore carrying children in the car should be illegal. Stinging insects can be distracting, as can gusts of wind that may blow loose objects around, such as sheets of paper, so driving with the windows open should be illegal. Talking on a cell phone can be distracting to other drivers who object to such activities. Wild gesticulations and nodding of the head to the beat of music can be distracting to other drivers; therefore, all such actions should be illegal.

That should cover it. The world would then be a safer place to drive in.

Mac Hayes

Rosamond