The other would ban hand-held cell phones, with exceptions for motorists reporting drunken drivers or summoning emergency help. Another would phase in hands-free car phones over three years. A few industry leaders may support bills favoring hands-free phoning if enough time is allowed for drivers to acquire new equipment. Overall, the industry favors more research and better enforcement of reckless-driving laws and emphasis on driver education. This issue is ripe for compromise.
Cell phones are here to stay.
But a lot of room remains between sensible cell-phone use and the move to turn automobiles into offices on wheels. Studies show the risk of collision when using a cell phone increases dramatically compared with normal driving. The best approach is a presumption of negligence on the cell-phone user. Nebraska is considering such a bill. That combined with a move toward more hands-free phoning is a smart way to go.