Staff Editorial
Graphic Staff
A new California law, which in essence states, “thou shall not send, write or read text messages while driving,“ goes into effect Jan. 1, 2009. And, what a great law it is. How long will it be until the “thou shall not eat while driving” or “thou shall not use your hands to talk while driving” laws pass, as well?
Truth be told, there are many distractions on the road, even without the help of a phone, or, as the California government sees them, text-messaging devices of death. Distraction is a factor in approximately 25 percent of all crashes, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. However, they are not specific about which ‘distractions’ to be wary of.
The issue became prevalent this summer, when the ban on driving and talking on cell phones was issued. The only exception to the rule is if a hands-free device is used instead.
The recent texting law, which was passed after the recent train crash in Los Angeles that involved a conductor distracted by texting, was signed by Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger last Wednesday. The legislation imposes a $20 fine for a first offense of texting while driving and a $50 fine for any subsequent violation.
“Banning electronic text messaging while driving will keep drivers’ hands on the wheel and their eyes on the road, making our roadways a safer place for all Californians,” Schwarzenegger said.
The number one reason behind the law is, of course, safety. But, the question remains: where will the line be drawn? If this is considered dangerous, will it soon also be illegal to take sips of coffee or talk to the passenger in the front seat in one’s own car? Suddenly, an individual’s right to privacy becomes negated.
Many other states, in addition to California, have implemented a texting ban, as well.
Distraction while driving was a factor in at least 15 percent of all fatal crashes in Minnesota between 2005 and 2007, resulting in 240 deaths and 1,163 serious, life-altering injuries during this period, according to the Minnesota Department of Public Safety. These fatal statistics led the state to ban the electronics.
Furthermore, the law just describes texting as the fundamental offense. What happens when one is really only cruising Facebook, IMing or checking the Internet for sports stats? If an officer were to pull him or her over, technically, no laws were broken.
Students will be affected by this decision — we are the generation that this most affects. Although some parents are quite technologically savvy, there are still many who have no idea how to use a phone other than to say “hello” into it. Clearly, this law is set for the younger generation.
As much as this law is completely inconvenient for those who are on the go all of the time, there is still some method to this madness. We could all grumble that it is not fair, and many would argue that they do not even have to look at the keypad when texting, but the statistics speak for themselves. Too many people are getting hurt every year by something that could easily be prevented.
We’ve all been there — stuck behind someone driving painstakingly slowly because they are trying to call or text. As much as people want to believe they can do anything and still be able to keep their eyes glued to the road, it simply is not possible at all moments.
Try sneezing and keeping your eyes open at the same time. Try putting on mascara without looking in the mirror for a second.
There are many distractions in our lives. The beach often distracts us from class, food often distracts us from keeping skinny and texting, more often than not, distracts us from keeping our eyes on the road. Even after the law zooms into effect, the only way it will really influence any of us is if we are caught or, worst case scenario, you get in an accident. Happy driving.
10-02-2008