In 1905 people tried to ban windshield wipers because they thought they hypnotized drivers.

In 1930, they tried to take radios out of cars because they were disturbing and distracting.

Today, bans to prevent drivers from using hand-held cell phones have already been proposed in 40 states. None of these bills have been passed yet, but New York is expected to soon approve one.

Since 1999, at least 12 localities have established bans.

The motive of these bans is to prevent accidents from occurring.

Using a cell phone while driving can distract a driver’s hands, eyes and mind. But so can many other things – looking at a billboard, taking a sip of coffee, putting on make-up, reading a map, etc…

A University of North Carolina study funded by AAA found that in accidents caused by distractions, only 1.5 percent involved cell phone use.

Things occurring outside cars were the most common distractions.

Does this mean that we should ban billboards, personalized license plates and looking through sunroofs?

No.

Cell phones have taken an important role in our society. Their usage is vital to many businesses.

Both time and productivity will be lost if employees cannot use their cell phones while driving to meetings or a client’s home.

Cell phones can also be beneficial in emergencies.

A motorist using a cell phone could save a life by promptly reporting an accident or by informing the police of a suspicious situation.

If these bans are passed, a whole new set of problems could occur.

Many cell phone users will continue to make calls on the road, hoping to avoid law enforcement. These drivers could certainly be distracted when they see a cop and try to quickly hide the incriminating evidence.

Travelers may not know if they may use their cell phones while driving in unfamiliar places.

Busy people might speed home to make a phone call, causing an accident in their hurry.

Our law enforcement officers have more important things to do than tracking down law-breaking phone users. Instead, they should be watching for drunk driving, reckless driving and drug trafficking.

Like people who drink or own guns, cell phone users should be held accountable for their actions.

Each driver is responsible for avoiding distractions and staying alert.

This responsibility could vary from not using a cell phone during rush hour to not driving when tired.

The benefits of motorists using cell phones outweigh the drawbacks.

Cell phone usage on the road should not be prohibited.

editorialboard: Michelle Kann, Tim Paluch, Jocelyn Marcus, Zach Calef, Ruth Hitchcock, Cavan Reagan