Editor,
I read most of the opinions concerning the issue of conversing on a cell phone while driving. I believe it's a good idea to ban this practice for several reasons. According to a 2002 study by the Harvard University Center for Risk Analysis, cell phone distraction while driving results in 2,600 deaths and nearly half a million injuries a year. Furthermore, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration estimates that driver distraction is the culprit in 1.2 million crashes a year, resulting in property damage. Additionally, the amount of risk that a cell phone driver generates is the same as a person who is legally intoxicated. Psychologically, it distracts the driver and delays his or her response to traffic signals.
Unless it's an absolute emergency, it's ridiculous to be chatting away on a cell phone while driving. One should concentrate on driving and driving alone. When someone calls me on the road, I don't answer until I come to a complete stop or get out of the car. Otherwise, I let a passenger answer my phone while I'm driving.
Gerardo Saenz
UNM student
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