Cell Phone Distractions

Cell phones are now a necessity of life. They have evolved into a vital appendage to the human body. Their features use to consist of just placing calls but now they're practically computers in the palm of our hands. Unfortunately this "necessity" has become excessive, and dangerous.

Kids as young as the age of 8 are getting phones, but that is not where the danger resides.. The problem is among those capable of driving. Put an inexperienced 15-year-old driver behind the wheel and you already have a high risk for an accident. Now add a phone into the equation and that risk skyrockets. "Cell phone distraction causes over 2,500 deaths and 330,000 injuries in the United States every year." (Journal's publisher, the Human Factors and Ergonomics Society.) To decrease this total many states, such as California, New York, Connecticut, and others, have made it illegal to use anything but a 'hands-free' device, although this doesn't completely eliminate the distraction.

Also, since phones have more available communication tools, talking and driving isn't the only hazard. Chronic texting has become popular, especially among teens. Obsessive texters argue that they can reply to a text blindfolded, implying that their attention is still on the road. Sure, that's impressive, but can they read a text blindfolded?

Too many have had to experience the tragic effects of cell phone distractions while driving. Sadly not everyone realizes the danger they put themselves and every other driver around them in when they make this all too common mistake. While many feel they would die without this "vital appendage," using it could be could be the reason they do.

Little Lamb