As of July 1st of this year, it is illegal to use a cell phone while driving unless its hands free. Now, granted just the act of talking on the phone is a distraction, but actually using the handset instead of a corded or blue tooth headset is even more of a distraction. Right after the law took effect, it was rare to actually see someone with a phone to their ear, while driving.
It is now a little over 3 months since the law took effect, and as I look around, I see almost as many people driving while holding the handset to their ear. The other day I was cutoff on the freeway by someone so involved in a conversation that he never even noticed me. I know it feels a little different when you first start using an earpiece or headset, but you get used to it. Also, you can get some great hands free car kits. Let's try and be a little safer out there on the streets. Besides, it's the law...at least in CA!
It needs to be the law everywhere.
I'm not for bigger government or more laws in most cases. Like I truly think it's a violation of my personal liberties to make it a "LAW" for me to wear my seatbelt. If I didn't wear my seat belt it would only hurt me... if I were in an accident.
But with the cell phone ... if I am distracted dialing, answering, texting, talking I could potentially hurt others.
Tammy - You are correct, we have enough distractions without adding the cell phone. I have averted several accidents with drivers on their cell phone. It would be interesting to see the statistics on accidents where cell phones were being used.