If a proposed bill passes, drivers using cell phones may receive more than dirty looks from other drivers.
The Senate Commission on Transportation and Homeland Security proposed in January to make it a Class B infraction to drive while simultaneously using a mobile phone, unless in emergency situations.
The bill asks other motorists to report any violations to the state police, who would then issue a notice to the registered owner of the vehicle.
If observed, this action could result in a $1,000 fine.
According to Harvard's Center for Risk Analysis, each year cell-distracted drivers cause 1.5 million auto accidents and $43 billion in damages.
What about people who smoke while driving, or people who use CB or police band radios? How many times do drivers turn around to yell at children in the back seat? Aren't they just as distracted?
What about those who apply make-up, shave or eat in the car? What about drivers with pets?
These things are all distracting, but analysts don't count the number of accidents that happen because a child was screaming or because a soda spilled on a driver's pants.
The reality is, all of these possible scenarios make this bill impractical.
If the state really wants to confront the issue of distracted motorists, singling out cell phone users is unfair and will only eliminate a portion of the problem.
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