WichitaFallsComplete.com
Just a comment or two on the No Phone Zone program being promoted by Oprah Winfrey. I'm all for it! I'd like to see every state make it illegal to use a cell phone while driving. Unlike seatbelt laws, which really only try to protect people (state property) from themselves, cell phone laws would actually protect us from each other.
Talking or texting on a cell phone and driving a car just don't mix. I've done both and I'm here to admit that, while doing so, I was a danger to others and myself. I'm joining the initiative to curb this dangerous activity!
In my town, and possibly many others, it is now illegal to operate a cell phone, except "hands free", while driving through a school zone. According to a recent news report, 25 states have banned texting and driving. I think we're about 25 states short!
Now, I consider myself an excellent driver. (Don't we all?) After 27 years of law enforcement experience (6 military and 20 civilian), plus time as a school bus driver and medical transport driver, plus my favorite pastime of just driving across the country, I've become pretty good at handling a vehicle and adjusting to the actions of other drivers.
I also consider myself a good multi-tasker, being a former multi-engine pilot able to shoot instrument approaches with an engine out, "under the hood", and communicating with Air Traffic Control at the same time. But I'm here to tell you that none of that makes a bit of difference when it comes to cell phoning, and especially texting, while driving. In an airplane, you normally have a huge cushion of space to absorb any minor errors in control due to distraction. Not so in an automobile. It only takes a few seconds to be inside the trunk of the vehicle in front of you. I've come close to pulling that off without a cell phone!
Don't overestimate your skills. Most of us just aren't as good as we think we are.
Maynard