Kawasaki Concours Forum

Mish mash => Open Forum => Topic started by: tidewatergirl on August 10, 2011, 06:10:41 PM

Title: texting while driving
Post by: tidewatergirl on August 10, 2011, 06:10:41 PM
Someone who loves me ask me never to text while driving again. He ask how I would feel if I hurt someone or worse. I am sharing some graphic images that got my attention today. If you have someone you love that is a little hard headed or silly please this on. It really shocked and shook me! Thank you to the someone who loves me....I will never again do something this stupid.

http://makingnewsrightnow.blogspot.com/2009/04/graphic-photos-this-is-why-you-dont.html (http://makingnewsrightnow.blogspot.com/2009/04/graphic-photos-this-is-why-you-dont.html)

If you need further encourage you can tap on the images to make them larger...I did and wish I had not.

Title: Re: texting while driving
Post by: wally_games on August 10, 2011, 07:25:02 PM
I coulda done without that.
Title: Re: texting while driving
Post by: Pfloydgad on August 10, 2011, 08:33:05 PM
Been there, seen that.
My son, the Firefighter / Paramedic gave me a call last Oct. He was on a crash scene and it was just down the road from the house.
A local Mother of 4 was texting and she did the left of center also, in a Taurus wagon. She went head-on with a huge Rumpke Trash truck. It had a monster Kenworth cab. She came out in 4 pieces. The only good thing was she didn't have the kids with her, if you can call that a good thing.
She was texting with her husband who was at home waiting for her, she had KFC for dinner for them.
A very sad thing to see and experience.
ATGATT all, everyone ride safe.
Greg
Title: Re: texting while driving
Post by: Nosmo on August 10, 2011, 10:32:38 PM
Yeah, that's mighty gross.  Death isn't pretty.   

People need to stop living in a dream land where they believe they are invulnerable.  We need to be reminded that we humans are just a soft pink goo on some sticks, and the world is a hard, sharp place. 

Perhaps if those pics were on the front page of every news paper, and on TV at every news broadcast and in the hallways of every highschool we might see a reduction of this type of folly. 

Every night coming home from work I see at least a dozen or so texters and maybe 1/3 of all drivers are phoning, even with our state laws against it.  They just don't care.
Title: Re: texting while driving
Post by: NDCUNIONGUY on August 11, 2011, 12:16:49 AM
Perhaps if those pics were on the front page of every news paper, and on TV at every news broadcast and in the hallways of every highschool we might see a reduction of this type of folly. 

+1 on the new PSA campaign.
Title: Re: texting while driving
Post by: Cholla on August 11, 2011, 05:19:29 AM
Wouldn't help a bit.
"That won't happen to me, I can text and drive, no problem".
Title: Re: texting while driving
Post by: oldkid on August 11, 2011, 05:57:17 AM
Someone who loves me ask me never to text while driving again.

Hey TWG, take this to heart. This someone cares enough about your safety and well being to call you down on this.

FG
Title: Re: texting while driving
Post by: Mister Tee on August 11, 2011, 10:19:32 AM
I don't know, I'm not sure I like the idea of going on campaigns over single minor issues of stupidity that can get you killed.  There are a LOT of stupid things you can do while driving that can have the same end result.  The subject in the photos just wasn't paying attention.  I suspect his ticket would have come up eventually, cell phone or not.
Title: Re: texting while driving
Post by: Conrad on August 11, 2011, 10:34:16 AM
I don't know, I'm not sure I like the idea of going on campaigns over single minor issues of stupidity that can get you killed.  There are a LOT of stupid things you can do while driving that can have the same end result.  The subject in the photos just wasn't paying attention.  I suspect his ticket would have come up eventually, cell phone or not.

If a texting driver killed one of your loved ones because of the texter's stupidity, I'll bet it wouldn't be a minor issue to you any longer.
Title: Re: texting while driving
Post by: wally_games on August 11, 2011, 11:09:44 AM
I was passed on Interstate 20 by a "kid" on a 600 sportbike the other day. First off, he was in shorts and a t-shirt, but with a helmet. Stupid enough already, but he was also texting with his left hand while twisting his right wrist at about 80 mph.
Title: Re: texting while driving
Post by: Conrad on August 11, 2011, 11:18:01 AM
I was passed on Interstate 20 by a "kid" on a 600 sportbike the other day. First off, he was in shorts and a t-shirt, but with a helmet. Stupid enough already, but he was also texting with his left hand while twisting his right wrist at about 80 mph.

I'm sure that it must have been a VERY important text! Like maybe asking his mom what was for dinner?
Title: Re: texting while driving
Post by: Mister Tee on August 11, 2011, 01:25:52 PM
If a texting driver killed one of your loved ones because of the texter's stupidity, I'll bet it wouldn't be a minor issue to you any longer.

But that's not my point - of course I would be angered at the texter's stupidity, for not paying attention to driving.  But he could have been reading a comic book, playing Nintendo, reaching for the french fry he dropped while eating, pleasuring himself, etc....

All of which are a bad idea to do while driving and all have probably resulted in fatal accidents at some point in time.  So which one do you pick to start a crusade on?
Title: Re: texting while driving
Post by: stevewfl on August 11, 2011, 01:34:19 PM
My EVO 4G is mounted on a RAM on my bike.  I use it for GPS and of course have never ever watched live TV (such as MotoGP racing), texted, emailed, Youtube, browsed the web, listened to MP3's, nor anything else that "distracts from driving/riding a vehicle".

It thrills me to know I'm on such an internet forum with 100% angels and perfect people  that have never allowed themselves to be distracted by anything while operating a vehicle. Unfortunately I'm not in the perfect category and have done some crazy fun "distracting" things while rolling down the road in a car.

Rock on.... I'll get serious in next thread   (http://i80.photobucket.com/albums/j180/stevewfl/bigthumb.gif)
Title: Re: texting while driving
Post by: Pokey on August 11, 2011, 03:44:02 PM
Texting/talking on cell phones while driving is so out of control, those that disagree are in serious denial. And it has been the sole cause of many deaths and serious injuries.........."PERIOD".
Title: Re: texting while driving
Post by: Outback_Jon on August 11, 2011, 03:46:23 PM
I'm sure that it must have been a VERY important text! Like maybe asking his mom what was for dinner?

Squid?
Title: Re: texting while driving
Post by: ZG on August 11, 2011, 10:16:32 PM
I'm sure that it must have been a VERY important text! Like maybe asking his mom what was for dinner?

(http://i1200.photobucket.com/albums/bb336/jaywilcox/smiley_dunno.gif)
 
(http://i1200.photobucket.com/albums/bb336/jaywilcox/IMG00439-20110724-1821.jpg)
 
Title: Re: texting while driving
Post by: RapidRoy on August 11, 2011, 11:04:15 PM
Was just driving home tonight from a camping trip and a young lady came into my lane, missing me by less than a foot. She was texting and didn't even bother to stop after the near miss.
Title: Re: texting while driving
Post by: timsatx on August 12, 2011, 06:30:21 AM
Nowadays, when I see someone do something ranging from just a little hincky to flat stupid, when I get next to them invariably they are futzing around with a phone, at least 90%.
Title: Re: texting while driving
Post by: mjrfd99 on August 12, 2011, 06:46:57 AM
3 of em yesterday, NOT a record.  Young girls are the absolute worst offenders.
Title: Re: texting while driving
Post by: stevewfl on August 12, 2011, 08:02:51 AM
3 of em yesterday, NOT a record.  Young girls are the absolute worst offenders.

The older wiminz stay on the lipstick/makeup and have for years on their morning commute. Whats the difference?
Title: Re: texting while driving
Post by: Pokey on August 12, 2011, 08:03:27 AM
3 of em yesterday, NOT a record.  Young girls are the absolute worst offenders.

Nah.........all women!!!!! ::)
Title: Re: texting while driving
Post by: roadkoan on August 13, 2011, 04:27:04 AM
But that's not my point - of course I would be angered at the texter's stupidity, for not paying attention to driving.  But he could have been reading a comic book, playing Nintendo, reaching for the french fry he dropped while eating, pleasuring himself, etc....

All of which are a bad idea to do while driving and all have probably resulted in fatal accidents at some point in time.  So which one do you pick to start a crusade on?
All of the above!!
Be it texting. eating, or Nintendo, either way it is dangerous, not required for driving, and should be illegal.
Title: Re: texting while driving
Post by: blue14 on August 13, 2011, 06:00:25 AM
The older wiminz stay on the lipstick/makeup and have for years on their morning commute. Whats the difference?

You seen what they look like without all that s***?  Let them be distracted...........damn 8)
Title: Re: texting while driving
Post by: Cholla on August 13, 2011, 09:00:34 AM
All those things are already illegal. Its called distracted driving. No further laws needed. Just enforce the ones we already have.
Title: Re: texting while driving
Post by: VirginiaJim on August 13, 2011, 09:26:41 AM
Yep, there would be quite the number of tickets given out if they enforced what they have on the books, but I think many of the state laws look at this stuff as secondary offenses and not something to cite as a primary cause to pull you over.  I guess they think you haven't killed anyone yet so go on about your business.  We have it as a secondary offense in VA, in other words....text away....  Both my daughters do it and I tell them not to but they don't listen to me.  Both my wife and I don't text.  We have phones that ring with large numbers so we can see to dial.  We're not interested in texting at all.

Title: Re: texting while driving
Post by: Mister Tee on August 13, 2011, 11:19:52 AM
All those things are already illegal. Its called distracted driving. No further laws needed. Just enforce the ones we already have.

THANK YOU!!!!!!
Title: Re: texting while driving
Post by: Pokey on August 13, 2011, 02:22:51 PM
Some of you just dont get the point, and to even think that just as many accidents were occuring only 10 years ago compared to now.........I call total BS!  ::) CELL PHONES..........are a huge public disaster in cars, and a system must be developed to not allow them to "text,  surf the web, or even talk unless linked to a handsfree bluetooth system". Use some common sense guys and gals, cell phones in cars are killing too many people "mostly innocent people" because some dumbass just had to gossip and or text about something that without question could wait until they were home or not driving down the road. I am hating the stupid things more and more each day, and I pray something is done to reduce the ability to use them while driving. It is a total involuntary action for women to talk/text once they get into a vehicle........and women and young girls are by far without a doubt the worst offenders. Most cant drive worth a damn even without a distraction, and cars are nothing less than death machines in the wrong hands.
Title: Re: texting while driving
Post by: Outback_Jon on August 13, 2011, 02:47:08 PM
CELL PHONES..........are a huge public disaster in cars, and a system must be developed to not allow them to "text,  surf the web, or even talk unless linked to a handsfree bluetooth system".

There's no reasonable way to make that work.  And even hands-free, distracted driving is an issue.

A few months ago, a guy pulled out in a car in front of my school bus.  He then proceeded to go 25mph in a 55mph zone (yes, slow enough to hold up a school bus) while going through stations on his radio.  (I could see him hitting the buttons and looking at the radio instead of the road)  He crossed over the yellow line several times while I was behind him.  No phone involved, but he very easily could have killed someone coming the opposite direction.
Title: Re: texting while driving
Post by: Pokey on August 13, 2011, 02:58:24 PM
There's no reasonable way to make that work.  And even hands-free, distracted driving is an issue.

A few months ago, a guy pulled out in a car in front of my school bus.  He then proceeded to go 25mph in a 55mph zone (yes, slow enough to hold up a school bus) while going through stations on his radio.  (I could see him hitting the buttons and looking at the radio instead of the road)  He crossed over the yellow line several times while I was behind him.  No phone involved, but he very easily could have killed someone coming the opposite direction.

Perfect example of the point I am trying to make............yes there are going to be distracted drivers on the road in one shape or form "there always has been" but cell phones are nothing but pure TNT when added to a car. We have all more than likely goofed with a radio, eating/drinking, "had sexual favors performed  ;) " and who knows what else........but cell phones are typically not a quick lil distraction. I am 40 years old and have been driving plenty long enough to know, that in no way shape or form has there been anything that is creating a bigger dsitraction than cell phones. People can no longer just drive, or maybe be happy with the music they are listening to while driving. The stupid things are simply killing and injuring too many people.......and for what? ::)

And to think the technology and or ability to make cellphones inoperable while moving faster than a specified allowable speed........I dont buy that for 1 second.
 
Title: Re: texting while driving
Post by: Outback_Jon on August 13, 2011, 03:36:12 PM
And to think the technology and or ability to make cellphones inoperable while moving faster than a specified allowable speed........I dont buy that for 1 second.

It's the unintended side effects you are missing.  If a phone can't be operated when moving at a speed faster than x, then the passengers can't use their phones either.  Nor can passengers on a bus.  Or a train.  Or (as technology allows) on an airplane.  Nor can I call 911 to report the drunk driver that I'm following.  (And my passenger couldn't either, for that matter)  Or be on the phone to 911 as I transport my injured child to the hospital.  (I live in an area where this is often quicker than waiting for an ambulance)

And, there are exemptions for emergency services personnel to use cell phones in vehicles.  So there would have to be an override.  And there's no conceivable way that the override procedure would remain a secret for any amount of time.
Title: Re: texting while driving
Post by: Cholla on August 13, 2011, 04:38:33 PM
"Cell phone in a car is TNT".
Funny, I drove to work and back today and the phone sat right next to me on the console. Nothing happened. It's not the phone that causes the problem. It's the person using it.
Title: Re: texting while driving
Post by: Pokey on August 13, 2011, 07:46:39 PM
It's the unintended side effects you are missing.  If a phone can't be operated when moving at a speed faster than x, then the passengers can't use their phones either.  Nor can passengers on a bus.  Or a train.  Or (as technology allows) on an airplane.  Nor can I call 911 to report the drunk driver that I'm following.  (And my passenger couldn't either, for that matter)  Or be on the phone to 911 as I transport my injured child to the hospital.  (I live in an area where this is often quicker than waiting for an ambulance)

And, there are exemptions for emergency services personnel to use cell phones in vehicles.  So there would have to be an override.  And there's no conceivable way that the override procedure would remain a secret for any amount of time.

And how did we all seem to get along just fine without cell phones..........we did get along perfectly fine, which is also a point I am trying to make.
Title: Re: texting while driving
Post by: Pokey on August 13, 2011, 07:52:55 PM
"Cell phone in a car is TNT".
Funny, I drove to work and back today and the phone sat right next to me on the console. Nothing happened. It's not the phone that causes the problem. It's the person using it.

I bet you cant drive for **** while you are talking on your phone in the car, but obviously you and others think you can. ::) Like I have said........some of you will never be convinced about the dangers this is creating, not worth trying to convince others about something that should be obvious. I wish you all the best, and hope you and anyone that you love isnt taken away from you due to someone's stupidity when texting/talking while driving.
Title: Re: texting while driving
Post by: T Cro ® on August 13, 2011, 07:57:34 PM
I bet you cant drive for **** while you are talking on your phone in the car, but obviously you and others think you can. ::) Like I have said........some of you will never be convinced about the dangers this is creating, not worth trying to convince others about something that should be obvious. I wish you all the best, and hope you and anyone that you love isnt taken away from you due to someone's stupidity while texting/talking while driving.

Don't think that anyone here has even remotely stated that these such actions are NOT stupid but lets take away your right to conduct business while seated in the back of a taxi, bus, train or plane and I'll bet that you will be one of the first to jump up and down screaming that it's unconstitutional to infringe on your 1st admin rights.
Title: Re: texting while driving
Post by: Pokey on August 13, 2011, 08:21:17 PM
Don't think that anyone here has even remotely stated that these such actions are NOT stupid but lets take away your right to conduct business while seated in the back of a taxi, bus, train or plane and I'll bet that you will be one of the first to jump up and down screaming that it's unconstitutional to infringe on your 1st admin rights.

I obviously understand how much things have changed in the workforce over the years, but we did all get along just fine without stupid cell phones. I am field service and remember when the only way to be reached was by pager and finding a payphone to talk on. But you know what......that worked just fine. Nothing that we do for a living requires us to be on our phones constantly, and this is especially the case while out in public. We have all become to easily reachable and accessable because of cell phones, hence a very big reason why everyone is so rude and has no patience for anything these days. Instant info, instant access, and one rude ass person after another........I for one dont wanna hear everybodys conversations, nothing is that important which cant wait for a more appropriate time. THE CELL PHONE COMPANIES ARE A HUGE REASON TO BLAME, PACKAGES ARE SO CHEAP NOW FOR ALMOST UNLIMITED EVERYTHING........IT USED TO COST AN ARM AND A LEG FOR CELL PHONE MINUTES. I would rather it go back to that, people would be much more stingy about how they spend their hard earned money on mobile minutes. And guess what........there would be a helluva lot less folks texting and talking all the time too. :thumbs:

I also wont be one of those people jumping up and down screaming because it is unconstitutional to infringe on my 1st admin rights. :)
Title: Re: texting while driving
Post by: T Cro ® on August 13, 2011, 08:37:56 PM
Ha! When is the last time you looked for a pay phone? Those suckers are a thing of the past or nearly so.....

The times they be a changing fast, stand still for too long and it will run your azz flat over all the whist texting and making popcorn at the same time.....
Title: Re: texting while driving
Post by: VirginiaJim on August 13, 2011, 10:03:23 PM
I obviously understand how much things have changed in the workforce over the years, but we did all get along just fine without stupid cell phones. I am field service and remember when the only way to be reached was by pager and finding a payphone to talk on.

I remember those days as well, Poke.  I didn't think you were that old...  ;)
Title: Re: texting while driving
Post by: T Cro ® on August 14, 2011, 04:43:58 AM
I remember those days as well, Poke.  I didn't think you were that old...  ;)

Yep I recall the pager going off to which one would find a phone and call an answering service who would tell you who called and/or connect you with them.
Title: Re: texting while driving
Post by: blue14 on August 14, 2011, 05:02:12 AM
Yep I recall the pager going off to which one would find a phone and call an answering service who would tell you who called and/or connect you with them.

Ah, the good old days when we could actually get things done rather than discuss things on the cell phone. 8)
Title: Re: texting while driving
Post by: T Cro ® on August 14, 2011, 05:09:23 AM
Ah, the good old days when we could actually get things done rather than discuss things on the cell phone. 8)

What was so good about having to stop what I was doing and find a phone that I could safely use as my boss full well expected that we return calls to customers within a 20 minute time window?
Title: Re: texting while driving
Post by: blue14 on August 14, 2011, 05:16:27 AM
People didn't feel as free to interupt you constantly and you had a ready excuse that you couldn't find a phone to respond.
Title: Re: texting while driving
Post by: T Cro ® on August 14, 2011, 06:32:04 AM
People didn't feel as free to interupt you constantly and you had a ready excuse that you couldn't find a phone to respond.

Funny that today I'm very selective about answering my phones both personal and business related as they are usually set to silent ring.... If you want me to call you back leave me a message; otherwise don't waste your time or mine bothering to call. On the other hand if you text or email me I'll usually get back to you as soon as practical.
Title: Re: texting while driving
Post by: Conrad on August 14, 2011, 07:21:09 AM
What was so good about having to stop what I was doing and find a phone that I could safely use as my boss full well expected that we return calls to customers within a 20 minute time window?

What was good about it is that people weren't being killed by a distracted driver making that all important text or cell phone call. There will always be distractions while driving, some we can do something about and some we can't. Cell phone use by the driver of the car, any use, is something that we should do something about. I work in a college town and I see dangerous distracted driving every single day. Hell, some of them can’t even walk and talk on the cell let alone drive their damn car.

I agree with Pokey 100%.
Title: Re: texting while driving
Post by: Roadhound on August 14, 2011, 08:05:05 AM
I'm with Pokey 100% on this Cellphone issue. I believe the use of a cellphone while operating a motor vehicle should be penalized the same as DUI.
I've been hit by a cellphone talking driver, she would not get off of the phone until the investigating police officer threatened to lock her up. All of the studies I've read on this issue rank Cellphone usage while driving to be just as bad if not more so than driving while drinking. It makes no difference if the phone is handheld or hands free, it's not the hand that's the problem, it's the brain. I for one cannot understand how any thinking person can think that it's a good ideal to attempt to operate a motor vehicle while talking on a phone and or texting.
Title: Re: texting while driving
Post by: T Cro ® on August 14, 2011, 08:20:17 AM
What was good about it is that people weren't being killed by a distracted driver making that all important text or cell phone call. There will always be distractions while driving, some we can do something about and some we can't. Cell phone use by the driver of the car, any use, is something that we should do something about. I work in a college town and I see dangerous distracted driving every single day. Hell, some of them can’t even walk and talk on the cell let alone drive their damn car.

I agree with Pokey 100%.

Never once did I say that I support cell phone or texting while driving did I? But putting a speed disabling feature in a phone is not an answer by any way shape or form.
Title: Re: texting while driving
Post by: stevewfl on August 14, 2011, 01:59:15 PM
Cell phones contribute to productivity.  I couldn't work from home (unless I was at home) without one.

Couldn't tether my laptop to the internet from anywhere and conduct conference bridge calls from airports and such without a cell phone.

Great devices, and part of 20th century progress.  The US space program may go away, but the world can no longer function without cell phone technologies, and won't have to =) 
Title: Re: texting while driving
Post by: Roadhound on August 14, 2011, 02:14:14 PM
Cell phones contribute to productivity.  I couldn't work from home (unless I was at home) without one.
Couldn't tether my laptop to the internet from anywhere and conduct conference bridge calls from airports and such without a cell phone.

That's all well and good, but there is NO one in the world so important that they need to be using a cell phone in any way while they are operating a Motor Vehicle.
Title: Re: texting while driving
Post by: stevewfl on August 14, 2011, 02:23:14 PM
That's all well and good, but there is NO one in the world so important that they need to be using a cell phone in any way while they are operating a Motor Vehicle.

+1

Yes sir I can't disagree, but I will have to add cell phones are no better or no worse than all the other driving distractions.
Title: Re: texting while driving
Post by: Pokey on August 14, 2011, 02:25:25 PM
+1

Yes sir I can't disagree, but I will have to add cell phones are no better or no worse than all the other driving distractions.

.......are you being serious Steve? :o Add this to the problem......all the other distractions that are/were around before cell phones, are still around+cells phones!!!! Now do you see my point?
Title: Re: texting while driving
Post by: NDCUNIONGUY on August 14, 2011, 08:58:05 PM
+1 on the new PSA campaign.

Hey all, I think this all started with the idea of changing behavior via exposure to graphic representations of mangled flesh.  I agreed with this because I think it is our best shot.  Remember seeing films in school about smoking and black lungs?  I do and it worked on me.  Remember Honda's "Stupid Hurts" campaign?  No need to legislate further or add more electronic nannies. 

On the other hand (pun intended), maybe new drivers should have to pass their driving exams while texting.  Hmmm...
Title: Re: texting while driving
Post by: stevewfl on August 14, 2011, 11:08:42 PM
.......are you being serious Steve? :o Add this to the problem......all the other distractions that are/were around before cell phones, are still around+cells phones!!!! Now do you see my point?

Yes I agree with "one more".  However, this thread singles out cell phones, and I believe all the distractions deserve equal attention.

I asked my insurance agent why the major insurance companies aren't fighting to have texting banned. She told me "distractions" are 25% of all accidents. To ban texting, we'd have to ban eating while driving, make-up, reading, audio/video in cars, attention to baby seats in the back seat and a lot of other things I can't remember.

Had this thread title been a list of all distractions, I'd have been on board. But it only mentions "texting".
Title: Re: texting while driving
Post by: VirginiaJim on August 15, 2011, 04:03:12 AM
 :popcorn:   This is getting good....
Title: Re: texting while driving
Post by: stevewfl on August 15, 2011, 07:35:36 AM
:popcorn:   This is getting good....

Well if its already getting there I'll refrain from posting in this thread from my bike (http://i80.photobucket.com/albums/j180/stevewfl/cheers.gif)
Title: Re: texting while driving
Post by: Kazairl on August 15, 2011, 08:12:17 AM
I thought Hands-Free was when I took both hands off the handle bars so I could text easier. Isn't that what everybody does?
Title: Re: texting while driving
Post by: Conrad on August 15, 2011, 08:29:11 AM
I thought Hands-Free was when I took both hands off the handle bars so I could text easier. Isn't that what everybody does?

You're sposed to keep your hands on the bars?
Title: Re: texting while driving
Post by: Kazairl on August 15, 2011, 11:59:55 AM
I find I don't have the advanced Ninja skills to balance the bike as I come to a stop so I always have to grab the handle bars then. Otherwise I steer with my butt cheeks because my hands are needed for other things like texting and operating my Playstation Portable. Next week I am taking it into the shop to get my Playstation 3 and 40" big screen installed.
Title: Re: texting while driving
Post by: Conrad on August 15, 2011, 12:07:48 PM
I find I don't have the advanced Ninja skills to balance the bike as I come to a stop so I always have to grab the handle bars then. Otherwise I steer with my butt cheeks because my hands are needed for other things like texting and operating my Playstation Portable. Next week I am taking it into the shop to get my Playstation 3 and 40" big screen installed.

I'm glad to see that you have your priorities in order!

What seat are you using for that butt cheek steering? I have the Kaw gel and I'm having trouble with left handers for some reason, I keep farting and almost lost it a couple of times.
Title: Re: texting while driving
Post by: Mister Tee on August 15, 2011, 12:14:45 PM
Some drivers can handle distractions better than other drivers.  I generally don't do it anymore because it's now illegal but I personally have no problem with answering a cell phone and talking on it while driving.

I also fly airplanes - the level of distraction while flying an airplane is huge.  You have to watch for traffic, monitor flight instruments and engine instruments, dial up communication and navigation frequencies, monitor navigation systems, make radio calls, read charts, etc... all while flying the airplane, which may or may not have an autopilot to relieve you of that particular task.  Granted, there are fewer things to run in to up there but you also have to take off and land, and workload and level of distraction is far greater during those phases than that of driving a car while talking on a cell phone.  Yet, it generally manages to get done safely.
Title: Re: texting while driving
Post by: Outback_Jon on August 15, 2011, 12:20:02 PM
Driver using two cell phones gets 12 month driving ban. (http://www.networkworld.com/community/blog/driver-using-two-cell-phones-gets-12-month-dr)
Title: Re: texting while driving
Post by: Kazairl on August 15, 2011, 12:26:01 PM
I'm glad to see that you have your priorities in order!

What seat are you using for that butt cheek steering? I have the Kaw gel and I'm having trouble with left handers for some reason, I keep farting and almost lost it a couple of times.

 I modified a plain steel seat off an old John Deere tractor I found rusting in a pasture. Any type of padding makes for unreliable steering inputs. It also has holes drilled in it so farting is not an issue.
Title: Re: texting while driving
Post by: Necron99 on August 15, 2011, 12:28:04 PM
The other day on my commute I was rolling just a little faster than the car in the right lane and I was going to move to pass but saw that she was texting, so I decided to stay in my lane.  Less than 20 seconds later she rear-ended the car ahead of her.  WHEW.

Distracted driving...we have enough laws as others have said.  A PSA campaign to keep people from distracted dring is fine... all distracted driving.  I knew a guy who died tying to light a cigarette.  It isn't new.  Maybe cell phones are worse, maybe not.  I think on a minute by minute basis they're NOT worse, it's just that you can spend SO MANY minutes talking on the car vs. the few seconds you need to light a cigarette.    It's anecdotal at best.  But it all needs to stop.
Title: Re: texting while driving
Post by: stevewfl on August 15, 2011, 01:18:50 PM
I thought Hands-Free was when I took both hands off the handle bars so I could text easier. Isn't that what everybody does?

+1

And I'm understanding per thread title text is the only bad distraction no matter hands-free or not.  But from a phone forum posting, surfing the web, youtube, email, facebook, etc appears to be OK, or err...maybe "not as bad"  (http://i80.photobucket.com/albums/j180/stevewfl/avatars/iconstirthepot.gif)

And people talking on it is totally OK!
(http://guysupacreek.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/lipstick-phone-driver.jpg)
Title: Re: texting while driving
Post by: Cholla on August 15, 2011, 03:08:08 PM
I'm glad someone else finally used the airplane analgy.I ave used it many times and got "that's diiiiiferent". No, it's not.
Wen driving and my phone rings my ead starts swiveling as if I was flying.
"Don't drop the plane to fly the radio".
Title: Re: texting while driving
Post by: Roadhound on August 15, 2011, 03:52:58 PM
I'm glad someone else finally used the airplane analgy.I ave used it many times and got "that's diiiiiferent". No, it's not.
Wen driving and my phone rings my ead starts swiveling as if I was flying.
"Don't drop the plane to fly the radio".

So it's not different. How many times does a pilot have to maintain a flight path with tolerance of only a couple of feet? How many times does a pilot have to negotiate an intersection? A roundabout, How many stop signs? How many pedestrians? How many traffic signals? How many lane changes? How many times does he have to maintain position with another vehicle just a few feet in front of him? How many times does have to maintain position while being completely boxed in, front, rear, left, and right? How many school buses and school children does he have to watch out for?
Funny they have auto pilot for Airplanes but not for Autos, Why? Because it is different.
Title: Re: texting while driving
Post by: Rick Hall on August 15, 2011, 04:44:26 PM
So it's not different. How many times does a pilot have to maintain a flight path with tolerance of only a couple of feet? How many times does a pilot have to negotiate an intersection? A roundabout, How many stop signs? How many pedestrians? How many traffic signals? How many lane changes? How many times does he have to maintain position with another vehicle just a few feet in front of him? How many times does have to maintain position while being completely boxed in, front, rear, left, and right? How many school buses and school children does he have to watch out for?

Two versions (three if you count tail-draggers) of the three fundamental rules of flying a plane. 1) Aviate, Navigate, Communicate; in that order. 2) Fly the plane, fly the plane, fly the plane. 3) In the case of tail draggers, keep it straight, keep it straight, keep it straight. Substitute "drive a car" for "fly a plane" above, and I'm sure we'll all be better off.

Funny about planes too, if you grenade the engine (or anything else for that matter), you don't coast to the side of the road and call for a tow truck.

Or, what's the difference between a pilot and ATC? If a pilot screws up, 200 people die. If ATC screws up, 200 people die.

Fly the dang plane.

Rick
Title: Re: texting while driving
Post by: Cholla on August 16, 2011, 12:22:44 PM
It is obvious the pster before Rick doesn't fly.
Can you navigate your car to your driveway without looking out the window? In a car the pavement keeps the car level. What keeps the plane level-while not looking out the window? And guess what-there is someone in you ear talking to you and you have to repeat what was said and still fly the plane.
Car drivers can't do it even without the phone.
Title: Re: texting while driving
Post by: Roadhound on August 16, 2011, 01:21:09 PM
It is obvious the pster before Rick doesn't fly.
Can you navigate your car to your driveway without looking out the window? In a car the pavement keeps the car level. What keeps the plane level-while not looking out the window? And guess what-there is someone in you ear talking to you and you have to repeat what was said and still fly the plane.
Car drivers can't do it even without the phone.
I don't drive cars but I do navigate my motorcycle home and into my driveway without looking out the window.
If the pavement keeps the car level, how do cars turn over? All the aircraft I've been in had instruments such as a Attitude indicator and an altimeter. The pilot has much more time to check his instruments and monitor radio transmissions has he does not have to contend with the rapidly changing conditions as an auto driver has to deal with constantly. Not just when pulling into his driveway.
 
Title: Re: texting while driving
Post by: Two Skies on August 16, 2011, 01:40:08 PM
(snip)

Funny about planes too, if you grenade the engine (or anything else for that matter), you don't coast to the side of the road and call for a tow truck.

(/snip)

Well, there's your first problem.  Grenades are for blowing things up, not flying...
 ;D

Seriously, though, talking into a device while driving isn't new.  Truck drivers have been using CB's for years.  Texting, however, does require more brain activity than running your mouth, and that activity would be better used paying attention to the road.
Title: Re: texting while driving
Post by: T Cro ® on August 16, 2011, 04:24:50 PM
Funny about planes too, if you grenade the engine (or anything else for that matter), you don't coast to the side of the road and call for a tow truck.

How's that go the two things a pilot can never have enough of is altitude below and fuel in the tank?
Title: Re: texting while driving
Post by: Rick Hall on August 16, 2011, 04:51:01 PM
How's that go the two things a pilot can never have enough of is altitude below and fuel in the tank?
Three things... Altitude, fuel, runway ;)

Rick
Title: Re: texting while driving
Post by: Cholla on August 16, 2011, 07:14:40 PM
I bet you can't drive your bike to your driveway just by looking at the instrument panel.
More time to do things? Yep, its obvious ya don't fly.
Title: Re: texting while driving
Post by: Kazairl on August 16, 2011, 08:49:37 PM
Pilots are superior. Gotchya. Especially when their drunk. Then they can sing Karaoke into their radios while simultaneously landing the plane AND finishing up the super Hard Sudoku that was in their morning paper all the while blindfolded listening to William Hung's  "She Bang"

 Just knowing that little tidbit will make me so much more confident the next time I step into a plane.
Title: Re: texting while driving
Post by: Cholla on August 16, 2011, 10:56:32 PM
WTH did that come from?
What are the odds of having a drunk pilot vs a drunk driver?
The point is here flying is much more labor intensive than driving and pilots MUST.also talk on a radio and memorize, repeat and execute what they are told. An auto driver doesn't come anywhere near that level of concentration.
Title: Re: texting while driving
Post by: Conrad on August 17, 2011, 04:59:50 AM
Pilots are superior. Gotchya. Especially when their drunk. Then they can sing Karaoke into their radios while simultaneously landing the plane AND finishing up the super Hard Sudoku that was in their morning paper all the while blindfolded listening to William Hung's  "She Bang"

 Just knowing that little tidbit will make me so much more confident the next time I step into a plane.

 :rotflmao:
Title: Re: texting while driving
Post by: Kazairl on August 17, 2011, 08:46:39 AM
WTH did that come from?
What are the odds of having a drunk pilot vs a drunk driver?
The point is here flying is much more labor intensive than driving and pilots MUST.also talk on a radio and memorize, repeat and execute what they are told. An auto driver doesn't come anywhere near that level of concentration.

 I had a long reply written out, then decided I really don't care anymore. Pilots are superior. WE GET IT! 
Title: Re: texting while driving
Post by: Mister Tee on August 17, 2011, 08:54:54 AM
How's that go the two things a pilot can never have enough of is altitude below and fuel in the tank?

Well, there is ONE time when you can have too much fuel.


When you're on fire.....
Title: Re: texting while driving
Post by: Cholla on August 17, 2011, 09:01:02 AM
Pilots are superior!

Snippage

We have now "jumped the shark".
Title: Re: texting while driving
Post by: stevewfl on August 17, 2011, 10:39:38 AM
(http://i80.photobucket.com/albums/j180/stevewfl/avatars/iconstirthepot.gif)

Unless it rains this afternoon I'm going to post in this thread from my EVO 4G phone mounted on my C14, but of course I won't under any circumstances "text-message" or look at GPS or the pretty lady in the lane beside me or anything else distracting.

Title: cell phones and motorcycles
Post by: tidewatergirl on August 17, 2011, 06:36:15 PM
Yesterday I saw a motorcycle rider checking his cell phone at every stop light. I thought ok no big deal until he started checking his cell phone while he was riding. I wonder how many of you out there have seen this....I know no one will admit to it. What got me he was a seasoned rider....old enough to know better... is being kind. There are all kind of hand signals for motorcycle travel ....let invent one for "dont look at your phone while on a motorcycle"......or is this to much "Big Brother."
Title: Re: cell phones and motorcycles
Post by: stevewfl on August 17, 2011, 06:39:19 PM
My EVO 4G phone is on a RAM mount on my bike and serves as GPS, texting. e-mail, TV, internet, youtube, weatherbug, online banking, etc etc  etc

"of course" I never use GPS or text while bike is moving, I pull over to do anything (http://i80.photobucket.com/albums/j180/stevewfl/avatars/iconhammer.gif)
Title: Re: cell phones and motorcycles
Post by: stevewfl on August 17, 2011, 06:41:45 PM
cell phone /texting blah! just another distraction.  I see many distracted with GPS routes and such when I'm on rides too.  Of course I never text or GPS or send emailfrom my bike (http://i80.photobucket.com/albums/j180/stevewfl/avatars/angelA.gif)(http://i80.photobucket.com/albums/j180/stevewfl/avatars/angelA.gif)(http://i80.photobucket.com/albums/j180/stevewfl/avatars/angelA.gif)
Title: Re: cell phones and motorcycles
Post by: redzgrider on August 17, 2011, 07:34:07 PM
http://www.wesh.com/slideshow/news/25114807/detail.html (http://www.wesh.com/slideshow/news/25114807/detail.html)

ORLANDO, Fla. -- A photo taken by a WESH 2 viewer this week showed an Orange County Sheriff's Office deputy riding a motorcycle on Interstate 4 through downtown Orlando while looking at his cell phone.

Read more: http://www.wesh.com/news/25120624/detail.html#ixzz1VL9a8Zjs (http://www.wesh.com/news/25120624/detail.html#ixzz1VL9a8Zjs)
Title: Re: texting while driving
Post by: Mal on August 17, 2011, 08:42:34 PM
Well, there's your first problem.  Grenades are for blowing things up, not flying...
 ;D

Seriously, though, talking into a device while driving isn't new.  Truck drivers have been using CB's for years.  Texting, however, does require more brain activity than running your mouth, and that activity would be better used paying attention to the road.

as well as eating, talking, fiddling with the radio, etc ad nauseum.... but a few have decided to climb onto their pedestals and preach the truth! Amen, and hallelujah!
Title: Re: texting while driving
Post by: Mal on August 17, 2011, 08:54:43 PM
Indeed, Rader said the study also indicates that even though cell phone usage nationally has exploded over the past several years, and more than 89 percent of the U.S. population owns a cell phone, there has been no uptick nationally in the number of car accidents.

http://news.cnet.com/8301-30686_3-10444717-266.html (http://news.cnet.com/8301-30686_3-10444717-266.html)


Title: Re: texting while driving
Post by: Pokey on August 17, 2011, 09:47:03 PM
Most statistics are bullshite.......I go by what I see instead.
Title: Re: cell phones and motorcycles
Post by: Nosmo on August 17, 2011, 10:07:00 PM
Not just cell phones. Check this out:

http://www.komonews.com/news/local/127938763.html (http://www.komonews.com/news/local/127938763.html)

Every morning while commuting to work at 4:30 - 5:50 am, I see a new way to drive stupid.  Drivers around here are "hiding" their smart phones or whatever down in their speedometer so they can watch streaming video while driving at 70 - 80 MPH.  From a tall vehicle or truck you can see the glow of the video.  LEO's haven't caught on yet, I think.
Title: Re: cell phones and motorcycles
Post by: stevewfl on August 18, 2011, 12:47:02 AM
Big deal?

Read above about my cell phone usage. Deputies are human too and GPS, lip stick or cell phones............   distractions are distractions.
Title: Re: cell phones and motorcycles
Post by: stevewfl on August 18, 2011, 07:01:53 AM
cell phone /texting blah! just another distraction.  I see many distracted with GPS routes and such when I'm on rides too.  Of course I never text or GPS or send email from my bike (http://i80.photobucket.com/albums/j180/stevewfl/avatars/angelA.gif)(http://i80.photobucket.com/albums/j180/stevewfl/avatars/angelA.gif)(http://i80.photobucket.com/albums/j180/stevewfl/avatars/angelA.gif)

^^^^^that. Since the threads are now merged i had to modify comment and remove the "repost"  ;D
Title: Re: texting while driving
Post by: Kazairl on August 18, 2011, 05:00:33 PM
Most statistics are bullshite.......I go by what I see instead.

 That's right! Ignore the facts! They just blind you with smoke and mirrors! The miniscule percentage of people you see as you go about your daily life is a much more accurate representation of the world around you!
Title: Re: texting while driving
Post by: Pokey on August 18, 2011, 06:23:34 PM
That's right! Ignore the facts! They just blind you with smoke and mirrors! The miniscule percentage of people you see as you go about your daily life is a much more accurate representation of the world around you!

Facts..........miniscule percentage of people? :o
Title: Re: texting while driving
Post by: Kazairl on August 19, 2011, 01:00:12 AM
Most statistics are bullshite.......I go by what I see instead.

 Lets see, collected data over several years from across the entire country vs. What you see tainted by your preconceived notions and prejudices. Gee I just don't know which one I trust more.
Title: Re: texting while driving
Post by: VirginiaJim on August 19, 2011, 03:29:07 AM
Poke.
Title: Re: texting while driving
Post by: Mal on August 19, 2011, 12:48:31 PM
Most statistics are bullshite.......I go by what I see instead.

That's one way to never be wrong... simply ignore information that doesn't support your theory...

My bike is equipped with a CB, a GPS, a MP3 player, XM and blue tooth cellular... I bet that drives you insane!

Oh, and I haven't had a ticket in 24 years, much less an accident...  ;D
Title: Re: texting while driving
Post by: stevewfl on August 19, 2011, 12:58:29 PM
That's one way to never be wrong... simply ignore information that doesn't support your theory...

My bike is equipped with a CB, a GPS, a MP3 player, XM and blue tooth cellular... I bet that drives you insane!

Oh, and I haven't had a ticket in 24 years, much less an accident...  ;D

+1

Add to mine the power of EVO 4G so i get youtube and TV (plus texting/internet/email) too
Title: Re: texting while driving
Post by: Conrad on August 19, 2011, 01:13:06 PM
That's one way to never be wrong... simply ignore information that doesn't support your theory...

My bike is equipped with a CB, a GPS, a MP3 player, XM and blue tooth cellular... I bet that drives you insane!

Oh, and I haven't had a ticket in 24 years, much less an accident...  ;D

What, no PS3 or Xbox?    ::)
Title: Re: texting while driving
Post by: stevewfl on August 19, 2011, 03:05:38 PM
What, no PS3 or Xbox?    ::)

child's play, I prefer text TV / youtube while on my bike !
Title: Re: texting while driving
Post by: T Cro ® on August 19, 2011, 07:31:19 PM
Subject Closed.

Reason: Abusive and Vulgar Texting.