Colorado Legislature Considers Cell Phone Restrictions [poll]

The debate on cell phone use while driving is alive and well in the Colorado Legislature, which has been considering legislation to require hands-free devices for motorized cell phone users.

The first step in this direction was taken when legislation was enacted making it illegal to text and drive – a good law designed to save lives. Common sense seems to indicate it’s not a good idea to text and drive, but sometimes we need an actual law in place to drive the point home. It's kind of like the seat belt law.

On Wednesday, a bill that would have required the use of hands-free devices for driving cell phone users failed to get enough votes to clear it’s first committee. But, according to the Associated Press, it may not be a dead issue – yet. Lawmakers did not rule out the possibility of the legislation being considered at a later time.

I’m not sure how I feel about this. Certainly, a reduction in distracted driving practices saves lives. While I’m confident in my own ability to drive and talk, I have far less confidence in the other driver, particularly if that driver is a young inexperienced driver.

My initial inclination is to oppose this sort of legislation, but my stance on this is not set in concrete. I would suggest legislation that makes it illegal for drivers under the age of 21 to talk on a cell phone and drive at the same time. While distracted driving can be a killer regardless of the age, the odds seems greater when it comes to young drivers.

I will have to think on this some more. In the mean time, we want your input. How do you feel about the issue? Should we have a law in place requiring hands-free devices in our automobiles. Take  our survey below and feel free to leave a comment.