Another bill has been introduced to the Legislature to ban the use of hand-held wireless phones while driving, a bill that has been submitted twice before. In a recent study, The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Fatal Accident Reporting System reports that for the 41,611 fatal accidents in 1999, only 54 listed wireless phone use as a “driver-related factor.”

These 54 cases represent a little more than one-tenth of 1 percent. This compares to 10,384 cases of driving too fast for conditions or in excess of the posted maximum speed limit, 1,322 instances of drowsy, asleep or fatigued drivers and 3,066 fatal crashes where inattentiveness was cited as a driver-related factor, among others.

If we are to ban the use of cell phones, shall we next prohibit fast food chains from selling at their drive-up windows? Or perhaps prevent children from driving in the car with their parents, another distraction known to cause accidents? No.

Wireless phone users have a tremendous responsibility when driving, including the responsibility to make smart decisions about using their phones safely. This isn’t always an easy decision, and U.S. Cellular believes in educating drivers to balance safety and convenience when using their phones, rather than legislation.

By following these tips and practicing good common sense, we can help make our roads and highways safer for everyone. Pay attention to the road and changing traffic conditions; safety should always come first. Make calls from your car only when necessary. Ask a passenger to place or take a call, or let calls go into voice mail. Wait until you are stopped at a traffic light to make a call. Never take notes or look up phone numbers while driving. Make use of services offered by your wireless service provider such as directory assistance call completion. These services reduce distraction for motorists by looking up numbers and dialing them. Use hands-free devices to help reduce distraction and maintain focus. Safety-conscious drivers also can use features such as speed dial. End a phone call if traffic becomes heavy or road conditions become hazardous. We need to educate, not legislate, and carefully consider the safety and the consequences of our actions.

Jim Holmes

Director of sales, U.S. Cellular

Augusta