Saga of Cell Phone Accident...

wnjj wrote:

Read what I wrote a little more carefully. I disagreed with his statement that said, "The biggest issue with cell phone usage is is holding the device" and quoted that specifically. The difference between holding and not holding the phone is negligible. It's the conversation that matters.

That aside, I do take issue with studies and watching people on phones in a casual situation like shopping and comparing that to real driving situations. It's possible that someone can prioritize differently when performing less critical functions. In other words, they're in a store shopping so who cares what's around them? That same person may well focus first on their driving when it matters. Then again, they may not.

Another example: Say you are asked to use a driving simulator while talking on a phone as part of a study. Do you really act the same when you risk nothing with "crashing" in there? Do these studies require you to carry on a coherent conversation? Is there a time limit to when you answer their questions? Can you say umm, umm, while the driving needs you attention and answer when you are stopped at a light? All of those factors will radically affect the quality of your driving during their study.

Does talking on a phone while driving take more concentration? Yes. Does it automatically make it dangerous? No. People can be distracted by many other things, even within their own thoughts. Ever drive home from work on "autopilot" and have to actually think the remember the past couple of traffic lights? I know I have. Would my reaction time have suffered if something were to have happened that needed my attention? Maybe.

Well written..^^^

Honestly, this has been one of the best, well thought out on all sides, and well articulated, discussions this site has seen in a long time.

I find it interesting to see where people draw the line for issues in life. I am fascinated by the thoughts that would lead one to state 'if it saves just one life', and 'throw them in jail' (always makes me think of the glass house and rocks...). We all have different beliefs, life experiences and values. I can easily disagree with someone, but in matters such as these discussions, it is in opinions and direction, not right or wrong. Someone brought up nanny state...anyone wonder how it has come to be or how we got/continue to go there? Does it bother you? Perhaps it is the best choice, but I think most would say no. But yet, we seem to keep making decisions that keep heading that way. Curious thing that is.

I tend to lean towards life isn't perfect, chit happens because we are, and are surrounded by, humans who do stupid chit, and be careful what you wish for, because the consequences are most often not what the intention was. Oh, and don't throw rocks to quickly. Because you all know darn well that you've done, still do, or will do, something dumb. And that brings us back to accidents, planning ahead, buying good insurance and being better people ourselves.

Cheers