Highways would be safer if cellphones were banned in vehicles

It's dangerous to use a cellphone while driving. That's why Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger has voiced support for SB-1613, a California bill that would outlaw the use of hand-held mobile phones while driving.

We completely agree: Cellphone use is incompatible with safe driving.

SB-1613, sponsored by state Sen. Joe Simitian (D-Palo Alto), might not go far enough because it only outlaws hand-held devices, but it's a step in the right direction.

At least it will reduce one-handed driving.

The only exception to the law would be a police-related emergency, such as reporting an accident. The bill wouldn't take effect until July 1, 2008 and the fine wouldn't be much ($20 for a first offense, $50 for others).

Make no mistake about it: motorists who conduct cellphone conversations are distracted. Studies by the insurance industry have shown that cellphone users are just as impaired as someone who's gone over the legal blood-alcohol limit for alcohol.

Nobody can concentrate 100 percent on driving when he's talking on the phone; multitasking might work in certain situations but not while operating a motor vehicle.

Everyone has seen motorists who were fumbling with a mobile phone or even trying to dial a number while driving.

It's an accident waiting to happen.

It's easy, too, to understand why. Driving requires the undivided attention of every motorist. No sensible person would operate a power tool while talking on a cellphone. A vehicle is no less dangerous and can become a lethal weapon if the driver is preoccupied or distracted.

In simple terms, cellphone conversations in vehicles pose a risk to public safety.

There's something about the dynamics of talking to someone who isn't there that makes telephone conversations when driving a safety hazard. Motorists can talk to a passenger without being distracted, but if the conversation involves somebody who isn't actually in the car, it's dangerous.

With congested freeways, heavy traffic, speeders and road rage, driving in California is already a challenge.

The Legislature should pass SB-1613.