Just an ounce of common sense tells you texting while driving is dangerous, and that using a handheld cell phone while driving is right behind it.
So we're pleased to see a bill that would ban texting while driving and the use of hand-held cell phones while driving go to the full House. A Senate bill that would ban texting while driving also has cleared committee.
It's especially encouraging to see lawmakers who fought against seat belt requirements five years ago say they were wrong on that issue and concede that lives have been saved because of them. We predict the same will be said about limits on cell phone use while driving.
And those who dismiss studies that the practices are dangerous or who complain about "Big Daddy government" are helping to put our lives at risk.
Sen. Shane Massey of Edgefield ridiculed a proposed ban on hand-held cell phone and its $25 fine as nothing but "feel good" legislation that wouldn't yield results. Massey proposed big fines for people caught using a hand-held phone and proposed making all kinds of distracted driving illegal.
To read the complete editorial, visit The Hilton Head Island Packet.