Bad drivers cause accidents, not cell phones

By: Drivers.com staff
Date: 2001-05-31

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Canada Safety Council president Emile Therien says there are few hard facts to support a connection between cell phone use and car accidents. He insists the majority of cell phone users are responsible. "Cell phones can actually reduce reckless driving. The ability to call ahead when unexpected road conditions cause delays can reduce the likelihood that people will drive aggressively to make up for lost time."

According to the CBC article , Therien claims it is chronic bad drivers who use cell phones as an excuse when they have an accident. If a driver is talking on the phone and drives through a red light, or if the driver misses a stop sign, the driver-not the cell phone-is at fault.

"What about other distractions? How many collisions are caused by kids' misbehaving, adults' quarreling, eating, drinking coffee, putting on a CD, talking to passengers, or even listening to the radio? Where and how do you draw the line?" says Therien. "Any ban would be counter-productive, irresponsible, and unenforceable. There are far more effective ways to spend money to save lives and enhance traffic safety."

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