Mobile phones and driving

This is a fact - Driving while using a mobile phone is both dangerous and illegal. Yet, this is something that happens all over the world and of course, is much, much worse in India. So why do so many people persist in doing it? Do they think it's cool? Do they like to appear busy? Are they so bored that they have to talk to someone right then and there? Do they think that they are so important that the world will stop turning if they don't take that call?

I'll tell you what - there's a good chance that the world will stop turning if they do take that call. If not for them, then for some innocent bystander that they knock over, and for their bereaved family. I cannot understand what could possibly be so important that someone would have to take a call right away. It wasn't so long ago that mobile phones didn't even exist. What did people do then?

And it isn't like there's no alternative. Technology has provided the solution with a variety of hands free devices. So why not use them? Too uncomfortable? Maybe it's more comfortable to ride a bike with a phone lodged between your ear and shoulder. Maybe it's more comfortable to be stuck in the wreckage of a smashed car. Honestly - if you think it's so important, just pull over to the side of the road and talk in peace.

This is something that seems so clear to me, and yet I can't seem to convince even the people closest to me that it's wrong. They get annoyed when someone else drives rashly while on the phone, but when they use one themselves, they seem to think they are 'in control'. What's the solution? Should the police enforce bigger penalties? Or can we all just stop to consider our actions and and realize that we don't have to let this device rule (ruin) our lives?

Do you know someone who insists on holding a phone to their ear while driving? Or are you that person? Either way I would love to hear your thoughts on the subject. Please leave your comments or drop me a line at childofchennai@gmail.com

P.S. I have also created a facebook group, where I will post links to this blog. So if you think it's easier to follow me on facebook, here's the link.