Hang up and Drive: Teens Ignore Cell Phone Laws

At the risk of sounding like a straight-laced, responsible adult (scary thought, I know), I'll admit something that I never have before: I believe I am a better driver now than when I was a teenager. Ok, how much better is a question that's highly debatable, but better nonetheless. To me, it stands to reason that most of us will improve at any skill, if we are practicing it consistently over time.

While lacking driving experience, teenagers also contend with more driving distractions, primarily in the form of other teenagers (yes, I remember squeezing six other people into that 91'Chrysler LaBaron, probably on more than one occasion).

In addition to inexperience and your typical distractions, teenagers now have to be "accessible" at all times. Essentially, this equates to having a cell phone glued to your ear, 24-7. According to a study released today by an insurance institute, teenagers will not stop using their cell phones behind the wheel, even if it is considered illegal in the state they live in.

The study examined teenagers in the state of North Carolina, both before and after the ban on phones took effect. Before the law, 11 percent of teen drivers were seen using phones while leaving school. Five months after the ban was implemented, the number rose to 12 percent, and the study considers that a conservative estimate. I'm trying to decide which is more disturbing, those numbers or the fact that these researchers secretly parked across the street from the high schools to gather this information...

Comments

[PeculiarPoPo]

As a parent, I try to lead by example and set rules for my kids. Although my kids are too young to drive, I make sure to never take a call while driving, and teach them that by me putting my task of driving first, I am being a safer and more cautious driver. Parents allow their kids the freedom like cell phones and driving without the responsibility. Driving is a privilege, not a right, and in order to keep your rights, you have to respect the rules and follow them.

[Mazerman]

Although it can be even more hazardous for inexperienced, teen-age drivers, the dangerous use of cell phones while driving is certainly not confined to that group. Even if parents are setting a good example, there are so many adult drivers on the road who are clearly not setting the same good example.

[Sue B.]

Well, as the article says, even when there is a a law, the law is not being enforced, so who's really to blame? As far as I'm concerned, about 80% of all teenagers have no business with a driver's license in the first place. They're not stupid though, so if they know they probably won't 'get in trouble' they probably won't pay attention to the law.

[ltorres]

The law has to be enforced, and consequences have to be serious. It's too tempting for teens to use the phone while they drive. If such a law exists in that state, it can't be just on the books, or why have it at all?

[vivamurillo]

Kids learn from adults. I know grownups who text while driving. This problem will get worse before it gets better, laws or not.