Community Corner

Distracted Driving...What Can You Do While Behind the Wheel?

Drivers are taking their focus off the road, and the state is now even considering a fine for cyclists. But what counts as "distracted" and how do you define "driving?"

The definition of "distracted driving," although a fairly new term, has been quickly expanding. Initially, it meant cell phone gabbers. Then texters. Now, it could mean anything from applying lipstick to changing the CD. According to distraction.gov, "distracted driving is any activity that could divert a person's attention away from the primary task of driving."

That includes:

  • Texting
  • Using a cell phone or smartphone
  • Eating and drinking
  • Talking to passengers
  • Grooming
  • Reading, including maps
  • Using a navigation system
  • Watching a video
  • Adjusting a radio, CD player, or MP3 player

This means from every A to every B, we not only regularly pass drivers indulging in at least one of these activities, but we are more than likely participating in a "distracting" activity ourselves. Drinking coffee, for example, counts as a distraction. So does changing the radio station. So too does chatting away to our carpool buddy.

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Cyclists are also being looped in on distracted driving regulations, with proposed legislation in California that would fine cyclists $20 for talking on their cell phones.

What do you think drivers and riders should or shouldn't be allowed to do?

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