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When It Comes To Cell Phones And Driving, Age Doesn't Matter

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The Tampa Tribune

Published: December 6, 2008

I don't conduct the AARP Driver Safety Program for drivers over the age of 50 any more, but we addressed the issue of talking (or text messaging) on the phone while driving as serious, and the age of the driver doesn't matter.

In the course, here's what we said: "Remember, studies are beginning to show that even talking on a 'hands free' cell phone still involves concentration and attention to the conversation at hand, often at the expense of the driving task.

"Make outgoing calls only when you are at your destination or parked.

"Use your 'voice mail' for incoming calls or let a passenger talk for you.

"Put your phone on 'silent' so that you are not tempted to answer your cell phone while driving."

Using a cell phone while driving, with or without a "hands free" device or speaker, is not yet illegal in Florida as it already is in other states where many of our residents and visitors travel. Text messaging requires even more concentration, and unfortunately is now becoming the preferred method of conversing among our younger drivers.

Especially in this age of heavy traffic and higher speeds, anything that takes the driver's attention away from the task of driving is a hazard. Young or old, experienced or new, using a cell phone while driving is a bad idea.

Making it illegal might do some good, but even better would be for all of us to set a good example for the younger drivers and make it a part of our driver education efforts and our own safe driving habits.

If we all do our part maybe some of the tragedies we read about every day and experience as family members and friends can be avoided.

Gail B. Leatherwood

Spring Hill

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