Comments on: Do you drive n’ talk?

By: Sara

Sara — Wed, 17 Oct 2007 11:22:07 +0000

I recommend that anyone who wishes to talk on a cell phone and drive at the same time use the Onstar system (if you have a new GM-made car).

It is the safest way to talk and drive at the same time. I think it's important to have both hands on the wheel while you're driving.

The Onstar system is great since it both speakers are used in the car, and it feels as though the person is sitting right next to you.

Otherwise, regular cell phones while driving is a hazard most definitely.

By: shawn

shawn — Wed, 17 Oct 2007 11:20:26 +0000

Yeah it's sad. People will continue to do things that either will kill them or someone that they know. It's just a fact. Like you said Neil, not wearing a belt is just as bad. I thought seat belts are supposed to save your life. So yeah combine that with driving with a cell equals trouble. And yes there is a difference between talking with someone in the car and on a cell phone regardless of what some people tell you. Don't think so? do an experiment and find out. And for people that think they are such awesome drivers think again. Everytime you get behind the wheel of a car you're risking your life. Why increase the risk? why not stop somewhere the car and make your call and go on your way? is that too much for you to handle? if you cant handle that then you should not be on a cell phone at all while driving. Actually, you're better off taking the bus.

By: me myself I

me myself I — Wed, 17 Oct 2007 11:13:28 +0000

In response to Bing: When the passenger is talking they are not necessairly looking AHEAD, sometimes he or she is looking at the driver or reading something or whatever….your point doesnt stand up alone…… In this case is becomes the same as talking on a handless phone

By: Melanie

Melanie — Wed, 17 Oct 2007 11:10:19 +0000

I'm sorry but if you can't talk on a hands free phone while driving then you shouldn't speak to a passenger in your car while driving I mean what's the difference. I agree that you shouldn't be holding, or dialing the phone while driving but if you have a hands free I really don't see the difference of talking on that or talking to someone next to you.

By: Neil

Neil — Wed, 17 Oct 2007 11:08:37 +0000

Marc,
People will continue to converse on their cell phones while driving no matter what. I still see drivers who do not have their belts on either. Some people like to push the system. Personally I use a bluetooth headset and voice dial. I am not rich, my phone and headset cost me $89 can at futureshop on sale. Yes, I have been known to pull out the phone and dial while driving, but this has been solely due to witnessing an accident or a possible drunk driver. I dont think using a bluetooth headset should be banned. What is next? Fines for being caught conversing with your car pool mates while driving!

By: Eva

Eva — Wed, 17 Oct 2007 11:07:36 +0000

I strongly recommend that you ask someone I know who has nearly lost his leg and half his body has now been replaced with metal and plastic as a result of someone running a stop sign while on the cell phone whether he thinks it is a small or a big deal to drive and talk!

By: shawn

shawn — Wed, 17 Oct 2007 10:55:57 +0000

May 8, 2001. It was a lightly overcast day in Pickering, Ontario, just east of Toronto. Richard Schewe was behind the wheel of his pickup truck. His two-year-old daughter, Mikaela, was his passenger.

Schewe was talking on his cellphone. Ahead of him, was a level railway crossing. He didn't notice the flashing red lights.

Moments later, Schewe and his daughter were dead. Schewe's truck lay crushed under a rail car.

So for those who are driving and talking with cell phones ask yourself. What if my kid was in a car with someone that was driving and talking on the cell? Don't think it can't happen to you. Just wise up for once.

http://www.cbc.ca/news/background/cellphones/driving.html

By: robyn

robyn — Wed, 17 Oct 2007 10:46:30 +0000

I only answer my phone or use it when I drive very rarely. I find it too hard to juggle concentrating on the road & trying to concentate on the conversation. It really annoys me personally to see people talking on the phone because they tend to not pay any attention what so ever. I've seen too many cutting people off, almost going into the ditch & taking chances on trying to beat the red lights. Knowing I'm being slightly hypocritical, understand that in average I answer my phone in my car while driving maybe 2 out of the 20 times it may start ringing. Pulling over is by far the better option. it's pull over or risk putting someones life on the line.

By: Marc

Marc — Wed, 17 Oct 2007 10:25:28 +0000

So let's be realistic people. This is just the latest craze everyone is on. The number one killer is speed, and the most accidents is followed by inexperience drivers, i.e new drivers (not fair to say young drivers as lots of mid 20's and 30 year olds are starting to drive). Poor conditions account for more accidents then drivers on there cell phones. If the conversation requires you to type or right things down most sensible people pull over. I am on the road lots and irronically the biggest culprates are women, with kids in the van driving fastter than the posted speed limit and talking on their cell phones.

Just my thoughts, and no people should not berate a writter for his thoughts. Remember people we live in a democratic world and not in Cuba.

By: carole

carole — Wed, 17 Oct 2007 10:23:56 +0000

I have a bluetooth for my cellular phone, but I always pull over to make a call. If a call comes in and I can't take it, by pulling over safely, I let it go to voice-mail.

It peeves me when I am trying to turn left and the person in front is on their cell phone, not paying attention and is the only person who gets through the advanced green.

People, if you must talk on your cell phone, pull over (carefully) and talk.

Your life is worth more than a phone call!!!!!!