New anti-handheld cellphone law in CA

techweenie · techweenie's Garage

Okay, so 5% of accidents can be traced to people talking on the cellphone.

So some stupid law is passed giving a $20 fine (first time, $50 second time) to people talking on handheld cellphones.

But most studies will tell you it's not the holding but the talking that distracts.

Further, the Governator, in signing the bill says the danger is looking down to dial the phone -- something you usually have to do with a hands-free phone as often as with a handheld.

Another example of misguided lawmaking... whose greatest effect will be more revenue for the state.

What other states have similar laws, er, taxes?

RoninLB · 09-16-2006, 10:43 AM

NY does, not sure of fines.

I read awhile ago that auto radios are also a distraction with the many settings etc and that there was an effort to make their operation much simpler.

It's the distraction not the fact that you are holding something. Why isn't smoking and lighting it prohibited?

pwd72s · 09-16-2006, 11:24 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by RoninLB
NY does, not sure of fines.

I read awhile ago that auto radios are also a distraction with the many settings etc and that there was an effort to make their operation much simpler.

It's the distraction not the fact that you are holding something. Why isn't smoking and lighting it prohibited?

Auto radios...yeah, what ever happened to 2 knobs and a row of buttons? Easily operated with your eyes on the road. I have mixed feelings on this one about cell phones. I don't have a cell, don't want one. But, I also favor individual liberty. It's a shame that so many people mess up liberty by abusing it. Not long ago, Cindy & I were passed by a "lady" in a suburban. She was talking on her cell while eating french fries, looked like she was steering with her knees? She sure didn't have a hand on the wheel...scared the crap out of me, watching her weave...

gassy · 09-16-2006, 11:29 AM

Chicago--$50.

deanp · 09-16-2006, 04:03 PM

CT - I think $100 fine first time, if you show up with a receipt for a handsfree device. If you get caught agian it's either a $100 fine or more.

89turbocabmike · 09-16-2006, 10:40 PM

Well at least it doesn't go into effect for almost two years (7/2008)!

slodave · slodave's Garage

Can I still text and drive?

Peterfrans · 09-16-2006, 11:20 PM

netherlands: from $150

vbaron · 09-17-2006, 12:29 PM

Yeah, here in New York we have the hands free law, but everyone flouts it. I use a Bluetooth headset, but it seems as if 1 out of 4 drivers on the roads are talking into their phones as they drive. It's basically unenforceable.

Rick V · 09-17-2006, 01:23 PM

Ok so let me get this straight, you have to use a hands free thingie but you are allowed to dial the phone while driving?
What is wrong with I'll call you when I get (insert destination)?
I see both sides of the debate but in the end it should come down to common sence. This seems to be lacking in most drivers in my neck of the woods, but I don't see how new laws are going to make the roads safer. The people who are a danger behind the wheel (from a distraction standpoint) are more than likely going to ignore a law like this anyway.
I am guilty of talking while driving but not where I need both hands like in town or traffic. I live in the country so it's diff. for me than alot of folks here.