Letters: Driving distracted isn’t a right

I can understand Jim Clark’s belief that people should have the right to decide for themselves whether to buckle a seat belt or wear a motorcycle helmet; whether it’s intelligent not to do either is a different question (“Keep the government out of my driving choices,” April 11).

However, talking on the phone while driving is another matter. Numerous studies have shown that humans can’t really multitask efficiently. I have seen drivers on the phone who don’t notice the light has changed, an emergency vehicle is coming or the cars in front have suddenly stopped.

Of course it’s appropriate for the Legislature to decide whether we need more laws regarding distracted driving. Rights require responsibility.

Let’s all resolve to put down our phones and cancel those calls until we reach a place where we can make and enjoy those communications safely.

This story was originally published April 28, 2016 at 1:11 PM with the headline "Letters: Driving distracted isn’t a right."