Cell phones aren’t a big deal when driving a car

There’s an old adage that for every problem an invention solves, it creates another one.

That saying has never been truer than in the case of cellular phones.  While cell phones have recently been under fire for possible cancer-causing radiation, the most controversial cell phone topic is driving while using a cell phone.

New York has already enacted laws that prevent motorists from using hand-held cell phones in a moving vehicle.  Presumably, disallowing motorists to talk on their phones will eliminate cell-phone-related accidents and provide safer roadways for all.

The question is, where does this stop?  How long before the federal government is telling us we can’t eat, listen to music or apply make-up while driving?  How long ‘til Uncle Sam scolds Joe Blow for running with scissors?

There are many things people do while driving that cause accidents.  And the evidence that the use of cell phones is more hazardous than other distractions is hazy at best. 

There is often a fine line between governmental protection and intrusion, and we’re flirting with it. 

          Tully Corcoran for the Editorial Board