QUOTE |
Several German lawmakers want to ban smoking while driving, saying it's hazardous. https://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/7721034/ |
International Level: Diplomat / Political Participation: 320 32%
If one wants to ban smoking while driving, then all activities that require the use of a hand will need to be banned as well. The article offers no reason other than it being a distraction, so therefore, anything that can be a distraction while driving should be banned as well, in my opinion.
International Level: Envoy / Political Participation: 241 24.1%
Well, you know that is exactly the same reason many states have used to ban use of cell phones, or requiring headsets to use cell phones, while driving. It doesn't matter what the studies show, it seems. Whatever is popular is what is enacted. To me, the shame is that the general public doesn't take the time to educate themselves on the issues rather than listening to the hype that often comes from the media. Then they could insist that their legislators only use honest information in making laws. If one doesn't understand the situation themselves, how can they hold their legislators accountable?
International Level: Diplomat / Political Participation: 320 32%
Mobile phones yes, smoking no.
I used to smoke and drive and never found it distracting because it is an activity you do habititualy. Talking to someone on a phone requires you to think about what you are saying and thus lose concentration on the road.
However I'm a little sceptical about law makers want to ban people from doing things when driving because it is a great revenue earner that doesn't get to the crux of the problem. And also, where does it stop. Why not educate our drivers to be better drivers and understand why it is stupid to drive and use a mobile phone.
Advanced driving skills and intelligence is far more effective than a slap across the wrist.
International Level: Negotiator / Political Participation: 453 45.3%
Actually, this has been an issue for a long time. I know I paid higher car insurance rates when I was a smoker, because smoking causes other issues besides disctraction. Are any of you old enough to remember the commercials with the cartoon cars, one that smoked and one that didn't? The one with the cigarrete got smoke in his eye, had a coughing spasm, and I forget what else... all to show that it can be dangerous to smoke and drive (and thereby justifies higher insurance).
Having said that, I don't think it's right or feasible to outlaw the practice of smoking and driving. I see people smoking and driving all the time. I did it for years without incident. How in the world could it be enforced?! Can you imagine the manpower necessary? It's just another symptom of government gone crazy, in my opinion.
Roz
International Level: Ambassador / Political Participation: 595 59.5%
Don't know if they could monitor who and when one smokes whilst driving. Distractions I would have to agree with..they have already started banning smoking in restaurants, pubs and work places here in NZ....just give them time and they'll do their best to ban it whilst driving. I do understand why one should be banned as the safety of oneself and others is very important to consider!
International Level: Politics 101 / Political Participation: 3 0.3%