When the California hands-free law went into effect in July, some were quick to point out its limitations: technically, the law still allowed you to text and type while driving. So whether you are sending off a quick e-mail to the office, or texting dinner plans to friends, your attention is diverted for long enough to potentially lead to an accident.
At Palm, we believe that drivers should focus on driving -- by minimizing phone calls while driving and always using hands-free technology. Texting while driving may be a common practice, but it's a dangerous one. We supported the previous regulation, and also support recent measures to strengthen the law. We are pleased to report that Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger recently signed into law a measure banning motorists from text-messaging and e-mailing while operating a vehicle. The bill received overwhelming support in the state legislature and takes effect January 1, 2009.
Mary Doyle, Senior Vice President and General Counsel
I live in Ohio and we don't have such a law yet. But I'll still shave my face in the car just like every other morning!
Posted by: Jason Head | October 03, 2008 at 11:04 AM
People need to be taught how to text, phone and drive. For example, wait until you are stopped in traffic to dial and text and STOP dialing and texting when traffic starts moving. If you must drive while doing this, then do so only on a straight road when there are no cars around you, including right in front of you. I agree this should not be done, but since it's going to be done regardless of the laws, we should give these pointers so those people don't crash into us.
Posted by: KailuaBoy | October 06, 2008 at 12:26 PM