Politicians Even Want Hands Free Cell Phone Use Banned
10/08/2008 05:45
Have you seen this Don?
If I remember correctly, I remember you being as ticked about this as I was. Anyway, not sure if your readers would be interested, but perhaps you could post this ad from the province on your blog. Seems the conservatives have an interest in banning cell phone use while driving.... And possibly even hands-free!
I also sent you a copy of my email to the committee seeking input.
Neil Korotash
St. Albert
SINC SAYS:
Your comparison of hands fee use in that letter says it all Neil. The sheer lunacy and waste of time on such a bill is glaringly obvious to all but the politicians.
Here is a copy of the ad, left (Click to see larger image) and Neil's letter to the committee:
To the members of the Standing Committee on the Economy,
I am writing to express my complete opposition to any time of legislation that bans cell-phone use while driving. In a recent column for the Saint City News, Chair Ken Allred states “any type of distracted driving can currently be regulated under a provision for careless driving” and I believe that is exactly how this issue should be dealt with. Obviously cell phone use can be dangerous when driving, but there are also many people perfectly capable of driving safely while using a cell phone and I submit it is only those who pose a hazard that should be fined. To fine or punish someone for using a cell phone when they have not violated any road rules, and are driving perfectly safely is in my opinion completely asinine.
Allred also states in the article that fining someone for careless driving “usually takes more than one single distraction to constitute an enforceable charge” and I recognize that the subjective nature of “careless driving” could make it difficult to enforce, but this is the issue that should be addressed. Make it easier for police officers to issue a ticket for careless driving instead of imposing new legislations.
Lastly, it is my understanding that even if cell phone legislation is introduced, there is some debate around whether or not to include hands-free systems! Are you kidding me? If the province hopes to ban hand-free cell phone use while driving, you might as well ban all conversations in vehicles as well. No more talking to passengers, or telling the kids to be quiet. No more asking “are we there yet” on those long road trips... Hands free systems can be dialed and answered simply by talking and so how is that any different from a conversation with someone sitting in the passenger seat.
In the overall picture when compared with some of the environmental, education, and health care issues this province is facing, cell phone usage & legislation is a small issue and I would encourage you to keep it that way. Don’t enact Bill 204; rather deal with the issue thorough the legislation already in place for dangerous drivers.
Sincerely,
Neil Korotash
St. Albert
