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April 5, 2005 – Cell Phones More Than a Nuisance

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Motorists with cell phones firmly plastered to their ears would risk a hefty fine – as much as $200 - if they ventured onto the streets of some major US cities.
Along with Washington and Chicago, there also are statewide prohibitions in New York and New Jersey.

The recent actions have come against tough opposition by major cell phone carriers such as Sprint and Verizon. But decision makers shrug off their arguments, contending that cell use has become a menace on city streets.

One recent accident found a semi-truck driver who dropped his cell phone.  As he went to pick it up, his truck collided with the back of a bus, killing 2 people.

In the most recent Chicago action, use of hands-free devices are permitted, while use of hand-held phones are prohibited unless the driver is making a 911 call or has pulled off the road and taken the vehicle out of gear.

Patrick Fucik, regional director of state governmental affairs for Sprint, contended that existing reckless driving laws simply should be enforced.

"There is no clear direction from government agencies ... or fact-based research to indicate a need to enact laws that single out wireless phone use," he said. "In fact the only consensus surrounding this issue is that there is a need for education and more research."