Apedia

Cell Phone People Driving Laws Annoying User Talk

Id ESLPod_0341_CN
Episode Id ESLPod 341
Episode Title An Annoying Cell Phone User
Title An Annoying Cell Phone User
Text

Many Americans like to talk on their cell phones while driving, because it lets them be more "productive" (efficient; able to get things done quickly) while they are "on the road" (traveling, especially by car). However, talking on the phone can be a big "distraction" (something that prevents one from concentrating on something else) and many people get into "accidents" (when cars hit other cars, people, or objects) while they are using their cell phones. Some people believe that driving while talking on the phone is as dangerous as "drunk driving" (driving while under the influence of alcohol).

"Consequently" (as a result), some state have "passed laws" (made new laws) that "regulate" (control through laws) driving and cell phone use. In some states, it is "illegal" (against the law) to talk on the phone while driving unless one is using a "hands-free device" (something that lets one use a cell phone without needing to touch the cell phone). This is supposed to leave both of the drivers' hands free to "steer" (control the direction of) the car. However, many people believe that the real distraction is having a conversation - not holding the phone. If that is true, then it is also necessary to ban hands-free devices if "legislators" (people who make laws) want to make the roads safer.

Forty states have "proposed" (suggested something for consideration) "legislation" (laws) against cell phone use while driving. So far, only California, Connecticut, New Jersey, New York, and Washington, D.C. have passed such laws. Arizona has a law against "text messaging" (sending written messages through one's cell phone) while driving.

Topics Technology

Learn with these flashcards. Click next, previous, or up to navigate to more flashcards for this subject.

Next card: Meat people grading grades butcher's food beef sell

Previous card: Products companies competition laws businesses services antitrust office

Up to card list: ESLPod Culture Note