[Steve Dallas]

There has been a backlash against those using cell phones recently. I rarely use a cell phone, and I have bluetooth set up for those times that I do.

First off, most states already have laws against distracted driving. To me, the distiction as to whether you lose focus is what's important here. Let's look at degree here, and see where you draw the line.

1) Talking to a passenger.
Many people do lose focus on their driving just by talking to their passenger, or telling their kids to be quiet, etc.

2) Changing the radio station
Yes, there are people that cannot change the radio station without drifting left or right.

3) Eating and drinking
Again, there are people that lose focus, and awareness while eating and drinking.

4) Doing makeup
Yes, the mirrors are pointed the wrong way and they are focused on doing makeup.

All of the above are examples of distracted driving. Not everyone that does the above is distracted to the point of dangerous driving though. Should we outlaw drinking soft drinks because some people start driving to the right when they take their eyes off the road for the 2 seconds it takes to grab the drink and take a few sips?

My point here is...some people are able to multitask, and some are not. Not every person using a cell phone is dangerous. Texting...is inherently dangerous, IMHO.

The question is, is a person who's on a cell phone able to maintain a safe distance, stay in his lane, and be aware of his/her surroundings.

The answer, IMHO, is it depends on the person.

I used to fly, my dad was a flight instructer. One thing I learned was how to CONSTANTLY scan instruments. This is a learned thing that some people cannot do well.

Before there was bluetooth, the few times I would use a cell phone in the car, I would be ready to toss the phone on the other seat if I needed to. I continuously would scan the mirrors and road, and my conversation was always secondary.

Now...there are many people who completely focus on the call, and I believe those are the annoying cell phone drivers who get into accidents and basically give cell phone users in cars a bad name. I do believe there is a certain percentage of drivers who can safely use a cell phone.

I wouldn't mind seeing a drivers license classification for this, where you are tested on your ability to focus on driving more than on the cell phone call.

The other option is to make eating, and all of the above illegal as well, because those types of drivers also can be distracted...just as much as using a cell phone. I prefer keeping it simple. If you're distracted while driving, you get a ticket. Why focus on cell phones when the problem is much deeper than that.