KCStar columnist supports cell phone driving ban

KCStar columnist and bicyclist Mike Hendricks recently wrote:

When I’m riding my bike down the street and see every other driver talking on his cell phone, I quietly plan my funeral.

They’re in another world.

Anybody who says his driving abilities are not diminished at least somewhat while blabbing on the phone is either a liar or delusional.

I know for a fact that I’m a menace behind the wheel when I’m on the phone. I’m lucky I haven’t killed somebody, such as myself.

In the U.S., motor vehicle related collisions kill 40,000 people every year.

We know how to reduce that death toll by 75% using a series of common-sense, simple, inexpensive measures.

Yes, 75%.

Banning the use of electronic gadgets and other distractions while driving is an important part of that effort.

Do we have the political will to make it happen or are we more willing to continue to needlessly kill 30,000 Americans each year--and injure and maim many others?