[oldE]

"Driving one armed around a kart track, depending on conditions, I can gain a tenth, but typically its a loss of of a tenth or two a lap. I can also try to glance at and read a scoreboard right as I should be slowing down for turn one...most of the time I make that to.

I think if someone puts enough attention outside their car, and keeping their car on the road where it should be is simply natural, there's not too much wrong with texting and driving, just be ready to drop that phone if someone cuts in front of you, etc."

The problem is not related to this. The difficulty comes from our centres of communication.

When we communicate with another person, we are hard-wired to look for body language, facial expression, eye contact, etc. which makes up so much of the message. Studies (U of Toronto and others) have shown the part of the brain engaged in this activity is the same area we are using for defensive driving or projecting possible difficulties with road or traffic conditions.

If you are trying to communicate with an individual not present (or out of sight) the multitasking going on inside your noggin will add 1/3 to 1/2 second to your reaction time. Worse than .08%BAC.

Switch off the phone.

Les