Don’t Drive a Car While Talking on a Cell Phone in California – or Else
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On July 1st, 2008, it became illegal to operate a motor vehicle while using a cell phone. But judging by the number of motorists who continue to drive while talking on their phones, the law apparently has few, if any, motorists concerned.
On July 1st, 2008, operating a motor vehicle while talking on a cell phone became illegal here in California. I, along with countless other responsible drivers, applauded this new piece of legislation and figured that the streets and freeways of Southern California would be much safer as a result.
But so far, I think I was wrong!
It’s been roughly two weeks since the cell phone law took effect, and I can honestly say that I see just as many people driving while talking on their cell phones now as I did before.
Apparently, the threat of a $20 fine hasn’t done much to deter people from using their cell phones while driving. And never mind that with court costs that $20 fine can grow up to $80 or more; it seems to have no effect!
And that’s the problem. As pervasive as cell phone use is while driving, it would have been better if the violation for breaking the cell phone law would have been much stiffer. Run a red light and you pay big time; get caught driving in the carpool lane without two or more persons in your vehicle and you pay through the roof!
Why not make the cell phone law similar? What’s the use of passing a piece of legislation if there are really no teeth to it? As difficult as it is to actually catch a motorist while driving and talking on their cell phone, it makes sense to actually make the violation punishable to the point that it sets a precedent and acts as a deterrent.
Driving the streets and freeways of Southern California is taxing enough to say the least. There are way too many distracted drivers on our roads performing all kinds of asinine tasks while driving – eating, shaving, applying makeup, and yes, talking on their cell phones. It’s utterly crazy! These people are a danger to themselves and others!
Motor vehicles are dangerous weapons. A distracted driver who is splitting their attention between focusing on the road and carrying on a cell phone conversation is careless and dangerous, and they should be punished severely!
