Fess up

MoFree · June 2012

Does anyone admit to texting, reading emails, checking FB or surfing the web while driving.

If you do, please read my post below about what happened to DH. People who are rightfully horrified by DUI are engaging in an equally dangerous habit by texting behind the wheel. And anyone arrogant enough to think they can do both safely is full of $hit.

Stepping off soapbox now.

valeriej6 · June 2012

Completely agree....I drive a ton for work and know how to pick out the distracted drivers and keep my distance.

Jillwithani · June 2012

I will be the first to admit that I do all of the above. It's a terrible terrible thing but I'm slowly pulling back to doing it just while stuck in traffic (which is 2 hrs a day). Mostly work related but still I know it's bad.

MoFree · June 2012

Jillwithani:
I will be the first to admit that I do all of the above. It's a terrible terrible thing but I'm slowly pulling back to doing it just while stuck in traffic (which is 2 hrs a day). Mostly work related but still I know it's bad.

Maybe seeing photos of the crash aftermath would change your habits. And the young woman responsible for this devastation escaped with only a few scratches.

strausbaugh9900 · June 2012

Jillwithani:
I will be the first to admit that I do all of the above. It's a terrible terrible thing but I'm slowly pulling back to doing it just while stuck in traffic (which is 2 hrs a day). Mostly work related but still I know it's bad.

Same here. I have stopped A LOT.

CLeigh03 · June 2012

MoFree:
Jillwithani:
I will be the first to admit that I do all of the above. It's a terrible terrible thing but I'm slowly pulling back to doing it just while stuck in traffic (which is 2 hrs a day). Mostly work related but still I know it's bad.
Maybe seeing photos of the crash aftermath would change your habits. And the young woman responsible for this devastation escaped with only a few scratches.

You asked people to fess up, she said herself she knows it's bad. Was your plan to jump on anyone that did?

MoFree · June 2012

BlueDevilLady:
I talk on the phone while driving and text a little but I've cut back considerably since becoming pregnant. Also, texting only became illegal in NC a little while back so I'm still getting used to not doing it at red lights.

Just because it is not illegal does not mean it is safe.

Everyone has their rationale why it is okay for them.

https://www.oprah.com/oprahshow/Watch-the-Full-Hour-Americas-New-Deadly-Obsession-Video

Maybecthis Oprah episode will make someone stop and think before texting.

MoFree · June 2012

CLeigh03:
MoFree:
Jillwithani:
I will be the first to admit that I do all of the above. It's a terrible terrible thing but I'm slowly pulling back to doing it just while stuck in traffic (which is 2 hrs a day). Mostly work related but still I know it's bad.
Maybe seeing photos of the crash aftermath would change your habits. And the young woman responsible for this devastation escaped with only a few scratches.

You asked people to fess up, she said herself she knows it's bad. Was your plan to jump on anyone that did?

A little, yes. And to make people aware of a real life situation caused by someone's texting. Remember, it could just as easily be your baby and it is highly unlikely that someone so small would have survived a crash of that magnitude.

gollywollypog · June 2012

LucyD1029:

No, not while my vehicle is actually moving, but I have checked e-mail or FB at a red light, both of which are illegal in MA.

This for me too, except I've checked texts at red lights, I don't have a smartphone.

MoFree · June 2012

Medhp00:
MoFree, I agree that more people should be made aware of the dangers of using a cell phone, etc., while driving. I don't know your story, but I know of several tragedies that ended in death. Have you helped to lobby in your state to encourage strict laws and educate the general public? I know some people find some release when they channel energy towards a good cause rather than holding in anger. I hope more people become aware of the dangers and start leaving the cell phone on silent in a purse or away while driving. There was a time before cell phones and we still had emergencies then. If it's that important then pull over to a safe location.

Yes, I am involved in efforts to make testing while driving illegal. However, as you can see from the responses here it probably won't deter anyone, they will just be sneaker about doing it.

The insurance settlement was paid from a very large umbrella policy the driver's parent's had. If not, they could have lost their house, savings, pension, etc.

Also, he survived because he was driving his SM's #1 safety rated Lexus and because the seat was so far back to accommodate his 6' 3" frame and long legs. A fraction of an inch difference might have meant death, TBI or paralysis. Is updating your FB status really worth that?

Jnmac83 · June 2012

MoFree:
CLeigh03:

MoFree:
Jillwithani:
I will be the first to admit that I do all of the above. It's a terrible terrible thing but I'm slowly pulling back to doing it just while stuck in traffic (which is 2 hrs a day). Mostly work related but still I know it's bad.
Maybe seeing photos of the crash aftermath would change your habits. And the young woman responsible for this devastation escaped with only a few scratches.

You asked people to fess up, she said herself she knows it's bad. Was your plan to jump on anyone that did?

A little, yes. And to make people aware of a real life situation caused by someone's texting. Remember, it could just as easily be your baby and it is highly unlikely that someone so small would have survived a crash of that magnitude.

Everyone knows it's bad. I think it's unfair to ask people to fess up and then jump all over them. It's one thing to be a spokesperson and try to make people understand how dangerous it is, it's another to be aggressive in a message board thread. You're taking your anger out on the wrong people. Believe me, I get why you're passionate about the issue, I would be too, but coming off angry at perfect strangers isn't going to change anyone's mind, it's going to make them think you're nuts.

CLeigh03 · June 2012

Jnmac83:
MoFree:
CLeigh03:

MoFree:
Jillwithani:
I will be the first to admit that I do all of the above. It's a terrible terrible thing but I'm slowly pulling back to doing it just while stuck in traffic (which is 2 hrs a day). Mostly work related but still I know it's bad.
Maybe seeing photos of the crash aftermath would change your habits. And the young woman responsible for this devastation escaped with only a few scratches.

You asked people to fess up, she said herself she knows it's bad. Was your plan to jump on anyone that did?

A little, yes. And to make people aware of a real life situation caused by someone's texting. Remember, it could just as easily be your baby and it is highly unlikely that someone so small would have survived a crash of that magnitude.

Everyone knows it's bad. I think it's unfair to ask people to fess up and then jump all over them. It's one thing to be a spokesperson and try to make people understand how dangerous it is, it's another to be aggressive in a message board thread. You're taking your anger out on the wrong people. Believe me, I get why you're passionate about the issue, I would be too, but coming off angry at perfect strangers isn't going to change anyone's mind, it's going to make them think you're nuts.

Exactly, well put. The original post itself was enough to prompt people to think about it.

MandeeFoFandee · June 2012

MoFree:
Jillwithani:
I will be the first to admit that I do all of the above. It's a terrible terrible thing but I'm slowly pulling back to doing it just while stuck in traffic (which is 2 hrs a day). Mostly work related but still I know it's bad.
Maybe seeing photos of the crash aftermath would change your habits. And the young woman responsible for this devastation escaped with only a few scratches.

wait, so did you just ask people to confess, and then you're going to "teach them a lesson" about their habits? she's admitting that she knows it's wrong and is trying to change... why berate her? I understand your position on the issue and why it's personal for you, but that doesn't mean you have the right to call people out for it.

my mother died of lung cancer at 38 years old, but I don't lecture every person I see smoking...

MoFree · June 2012

Jnmac83:
MoFree:
CLeigh03:

MoFree:
Jillwithani:
I will be the first to admit that I do all of the above. It's a terrible terrible thing but I'm slowly pulling back to doing it just while stuck in traffic (which is 2 hrs a day). Mostly work related but still I know it's bad.
Maybe seeing photos of the crash aftermath would change your habits. And the young woman responsible for this devastation escaped with only a few scratches.

You asked people to fess up, she said herself she knows it's bad. Was your plan to jump on anyone that did?

A little, yes. And to make people aware of a real life situation caused by someone's texting. Remember, it could just as easily be your baby and it is highly unlikely that someone so small would have survived a crash of that magnitude.

Everyone knows it's bad. I think it's unfair to ask people to fess up and then jump all over them. It's one thing to be a spokesperson and try to make people understand how dangerous it is, it's another to be aggressive in a message board thread. You're taking your anger out on the wrong people. Believe me, I get why you're passionate about the issue, I would be too, but coming off angry at perfect strangers isn't going to change anyone's mind, it's going to make them think you're nuts.

Frankly, I don't care what people think of me. I do care about dangerous driving. I should have started a discussion on the dangers and given my husbanc's story. Unfortunately, I don't think it will change anyone's habits, though, because everyone can rationalize why it is okay for them.

MandeeFoFandee · June 2012

Jnmac83:
MoFree:
CLeigh03:

MoFree:
Jillwithani:
I will be the first to admit that I do all of the above. It's a terrible terrible thing but I'm slowly pulling back to doing it just while stuck in traffic (which is 2 hrs a day). Mostly work related but still I know it's bad.
Maybe seeing photos of the crash aftermath would change your habits. And the young woman responsible for this devastation escaped with only a few scratches.

You asked people to fess up, she said herself she knows it's bad. Was your plan to jump on anyone that did?

A little, yes. And to make people aware of a real life situation caused by someone's texting. Remember, it could just as easily be your baby and it is highly unlikely that someone so small would have survived a crash of that magnitude.

Everyone knows it's bad. I think it's unfair to ask people to fess up and then jump all over them. It's one thing to be a spokesperson and try to make people understand how dangerous it is, it's another to be aggressive in a message board thread. You're taking your anger out on the wrong people. Believe me, I get why you're passionate about the issue, I would be too, but coming off angry at perfect strangers isn't going to change anyone's mind, it's going to make them think you're nuts.

great minds think alike. I should have scrolled down before I replied!

babyike · June 2012

Jnmac83:
MoFree:
CLeigh03:

MoFree:
Jillwithani:
I will be the first to admit that I do all of the above. It's a terrible terrible thing but I'm slowly pulling back to doing it just while stuck in traffic (which is 2 hrs a day). Mostly work related but still I know it's bad.
Maybe seeing photos of the crash aftermath would change your habits. And the young woman responsible for this devastation escaped with only a few scratches.

You asked people to fess up, she said herself she knows it's bad. Was your plan to jump on anyone that did?

A little, yes. And to make people aware of a real life situation caused by someone's texting. Remember, it could just as easily be your baby and it is highly unlikely that someone so small would have survived a crash of that magnitude.

Everyone knows it's bad. I think it's unfair to ask people to fess up and then jump all over them. It's one thing to be a spokesperson and try to make people understand how dangerous it is, it's another to be aggressive in a message board thread. You're taking your anger out on the wrong people. Believe me, I get why you're passionate about the issue, I would be too, but coming off angry at perfect strangers isn't going to change anyone's mind, it's going to make them think you're nuts.

ITA with Jnmac's reply Yes

Mo, it is absolutely terrible what your DH and you have had to go through because of someone else's negligence. As another poster said, putting your energy (both positive and negative) towards a prevention cause for texting/talking while driving is a wonderful way to try and make a difference. But it's very off-putting to ask for confessions and then chastize those who are just being honest in their replies to your OP.

Hopefully you and your DH can begin to move forward from this traumatic situation and both work towards healing both emotinally and physically

MandeeFoFandee · June 2012

and for the record, I do not text and drive. if I am at a stop light, I will check to see if I have a text, but I wait until I am parked to respond. if I am in a major traffic jam (thinking DC Capitol beltway traffic where you are stopped for miles), that is another story. my eyes are never on my phone if my car is in motion.

Jnmac83 · June 2012

MoFree:
Jnmac83:
MoFree:
CLeigh03:

MoFree:
Jillwithani:
I will be the first to admit that I do all of the above. It's a terrible terrible thing but I'm slowly pulling back to doing it just while stuck in traffic (which is 2 hrs a day). Mostly work related but still I know it's bad.
Maybe seeing photos of the crash aftermath would change your habits. And the young woman responsible for this devastation escaped with only a few scratches.

You asked people to fess up, she said herself she knows it's bad. Was your plan to jump on anyone that did?

A little, yes. And to make people aware of a real life situation caused by someone's texting. Remember, it could just as easily be your baby and it is highly unlikely that someone so small would have survived a crash of that magnitude.

Everyone knows it's bad. I think it's unfair to ask people to fess up and then jump all over them. It's one thing to be a spokesperson and try to make people understand how dangerous it is, it's another to be aggressive in a message board thread. You're taking your anger out on the wrong people. Believe me, I get why you're passionate about the issue, I would be too, but coming off angry at perfect strangers isn't going to change anyone's mind, it's going to make them think you're nuts.

Frankly, I don't care what people think of me. I do care about dangerous driving. I should have started a discussion on the dangers and given my husbanc's story. Unfortunately, I don't think it will change anyone's habits, though, because everyone can rationalize why it is okay for them.

Well, you're definitely not going to change anyone's mind with an attitude and angry lectures. And trying to "change" people by being rude isn't going to do the trick either.

ETA: I took out the last sentence because it was bratty. But, in all seriousness, once your anger dies down and you can passionately advocate for the cause without sounding mean, you should channel your energy into that. I totally get why you're so passionate, but people don't want to be jumped on and sometimes it takes something tragic to change someone's opinion. Horrible, but true.

MoFree · June 2012

Jnmac83:
MoFree:
Jnmac83:
MoFree:
CLeigh03:

MoFree:
Jillwithani:
I will be the first to admit that I do all of the above. It's a terrible terrible thing but I'm slowly pulling back to doing it just while stuck in traffic (which is 2 hrs a day). Mostly work related but still I know it's bad.
Maybe seeing photos of the crash aftermath would change your habits. And the young woman responsible for this devastation escaped with only a few scratches.

You asked people to fess up, she said herself she knows it's bad. Was your plan to jump on anyone that did?

A little, yes. And to make people aware of a real life situation caused by someone's texting. Remember, it could just as easily be your baby and it is highly unlikely that someone so small would have survived a crash of that magnitude.

Everyone knows it's bad. I think it's unfair to ask people to fess up and then jump all over them. It's one thing to be a spokesperson and try to make people understand how dangerous it is, it's another to be aggressive in a message board thread. You're taking your anger out on the wrong people. Believe me, I get why you're passionate about the issue, I would be too, but coming off angry at perfect strangers isn't going to change anyone's mind, it's going to make them think you're nuts.

Frankly, I don't care what people think of me. I do care about dangerous driving. I should have started a discussion on the dangers and given my husbanc's story. Unfortunately, I don't think it will change anyone's habits, though, because everyone can rationalize why it is okay for them.

Well, you're definitely not going to change anyone's mind with an attitude and angry lectures. And trying to "change" people by being rude isn't going to do the trick either.

ETA: I took out the last sentence because it was bratty. But, in all seriousness, once your anger dies down and you can passionately advocate for the cause without sounding mean, you should channel your energy into that. I totally get why you're so passionate, but people don't want to be jumped on and sometimes it takes something tragic to change someone's opinion. Horrible, but true.

With all due respect, I really do believe that most people will only change when it directly affects them or a person close to them. Unfortunately making texting while driving illegal doesn't deter anyone. they only become sneaker. In Arizona, it is unlikely to become illegal because of such strong anti-regulation sentiment.

I am sorry if I come across as angry but I am appalled that responsible adults who either are or about to become parents willfully engage in such a dangerous habit when they would never drive Impaired.

Andreabks · June 2012

to play devils advocate a bit here, (i'll admit i rarely text at long stop lights, or make a quick call telling DH i'm on my way)

but if the point of making texting and talking while driving illegal in most states was to limit distracted driving, why aren't we making laws against eating food or putting on makeup?

story on our news this morning was from a guy speeding and eating fast food while driving last night, hit 2 other cars before flipping his several times over.

so if we're going to continue to regulate people acting rediculous, where are we planning to stop? That lady putting on mascara is just as distracted at the person the next car over answering a text.

DemoDoll · June 2012

MoFree:
Jnmac83:
MoFree:
CLeigh03:

MoFree:
Jillwithani:
I will be the first to admit that I do all of the above. It's a terrible terrible thing but I'm slowly pulling back to doing it just while stuck in traffic (which is 2 hrs a day). Mostly work related but still I know it's bad.
Maybe seeing photos of the crash aftermath would change your habits. And the young woman responsible for this devastation escaped with only a few scratches.

You asked people to fess up, she said herself she knows it's bad. Was your plan to jump on anyone that did?

A little, yes. And to make people aware of a real life situation caused by someone's texting. Remember, it could just as easily be your baby and it is highly unlikely that someone so small would have survived a crash of that magnitude.

Everyone knows it's bad. I think it's unfair to ask people to fess up and then jump all over them. It's one thing to be a spokesperson and try to make people understand how dangerous it is, it's another to be aggressive in a message board thread. You're taking your anger out on the wrong people. Believe me, I get why you're passionate about the issue, I would be too, but coming off angry at perfect strangers isn't going to change anyone's mind, it's going to make them think you're nuts.

Frankly, I don't care what people think of me. I do care about dangerous driving. I should have started a discussion on the dangers and given my husbanc's story. Unfortunately, I don't think it will change anyone's habits, though, because everyone can rationalize why it is okay for them.

No one was rationalizing it at all, they were saying they know it's bad and they are trying to cut back. Cutting something cold turkey isn't for everyone. You asked and they are stating truthfully what they are doing.

I have a phone and a car that do everything by voice command so I don't text while driving with my fingers but with my voice. I don't check my FB or text with conversations, it's more of me telling someone a message when I know they can't talk on the phone.

CLeigh03 · June 2012

DemoDoll:
MoFree:
Jnmac83:
MoFree:
CLeigh03:

MoFree:
Jillwithani:
I will be the first to admit that I do all of the above. It's a terrible terrible thing but I'm slowly pulling back to doing it just while stuck in traffic (which is 2 hrs a day). Mostly work related but still I know it's bad.
Maybe seeing photos of the crash aftermath would change your habits. And the young woman responsible for this devastation escaped with only a few scratches.

You asked people to fess up, she said herself she knows it's bad. Was your plan to jump on anyone that did?

A little, yes. And to make people aware of a real life situation caused by someone's texting. Remember, it could just as easily be your baby and it is highly unlikely that someone so small would have survived a crash of that magnitude.

Everyone knows it's bad. I think it's unfair to ask people to fess up and then jump all over them. It's one thing to be a spokesperson and try to make people understand how dangerous it is, it's another to be aggressive in a message board thread. You're taking your anger out on the wrong people. Believe me, I get why you're passionate about the issue, I would be too, but coming off angry at perfect strangers isn't going to change anyone's mind, it's going to make them think you're nuts.

Frankly, I don't care what people think of me. I do care about dangerous driving. I should have started a discussion on the dangers and given my husbanc's story. Unfortunately, I don't think it will change anyone's habits, though, because everyone can rationalize why it is okay for them.

No one was rationalizing it at all, they were saying they know it's bad and they are trying to cut back. Cutting something cold turkey isn't for everyone. You asked and they are stating truthfully what they are doing.

I have a phone and a car that do everything by voice command so I don't text while driving with my fingers but with my voice. I don't check my FB or text with conversations, it's more of me telling someone a message when I know they can't talk on the phone.

Yes, not one person responded attempting to convince us all that it was OK. I believe we are all in agreement that it is not a good idea, at all.

ashS10309 · June 2012

MandeeFoFandee:

MoFree:
Jillwithani:
I will be the first to admit that I do all of the above. It's a terrible terrible thing but I'm slowly pulling back to doing it just while stuck in traffic (which is 2 hrs a day). Mostly work related but still I know it's bad.
Maybe seeing photos of the crash aftermath would change your habits. And the young woman responsible for this devastation escaped with only a few scratches.

wait, so did you just ask people to confess, and then you're going to "teach them a lesson" about their habits? she's admitting that she knows it's wrong and is trying to change... why berate her? I understand your position on the issue and why it's personal for you, but that doesn't mean you have the right to call people out for it.

my mother died of lung cancer at 38 years old, but I don't lecture every person I see smoking...

This exactly. Well said.

Andreabks · June 2012

Scout2005:
Andreabks:

but if the point of making texting and talking while driving illegal in most states was to limit distracted driving, why aren't we making laws against eating food or putting on makeup?

They are proposing just that in many states.

There is nothing so important that it can't wait until you get where you are going. If something that important did come up, pull over and text then.

I agree, but when did it become the governments job to regulate this stuff? where i live in CA this law goes mostly un-checked because we simply do not have the law enforcement personell to bother. They don't respond to home breakins unless there is threat of bodily harm, or to traffic accidents unless someone physically gets hurt. There is not enough manpower to pull over every distracted driver, speeder etc. Is it right? no! but at what point do we all start taking responsibility for our own actions and stop asking the goverment to tell us what is ok or not.

having a cell phone law (which we passed texting before we bothered with talking hands free here in CA) hasn't done much to decrease the occurences. at least not in the part of CA i live in.

jesslinnn · June 2012

Scout2005:
Never have, never will.
I really cannot believe people still do this, with all the stories out there about what can happen.

This. I don't get why a text/Facebook update/email can't wait. Seriously, how f*cking important can it be?!??? If you were only risking your own life, whatever, take that chance but you are putting EVERYONE else at risk! It makes me sick that people are so nonchalant about it. Anyone who texts and drives is an assshole in my book.

Andplusalso- People are so quick to jump on someone for other unsafe things like buying a used car seat but then they go and text and drive. Makes me want to punch faces!

MoFree · June 2012

Scout2005:
DemoDoll:

Cutting something cold turkey isn't for everyone. You asked and they are stating truthfully what they are doing.

We aren't talking about cigarettes or hard drugs, FFS.
It's texting while driving. I promise there are no physical side-effects from knocking it off here and now.

Scout, I ?? you. Maybe some internet school psychologist will want texting-while-driving to be recognized as a legitimate addiction with its own DSM.

Gimme a break, if someone wants to stop they can. It's a bad habit and nothing more.

DeputiesWife · June 2012

DH being a police officer and head of their accident reconstruction team has stated that texting while driving can be worse than driving while intoxicated.

Do I do it while in motion, no. Do i send a text while stopped, sometimes.

rp-chicago-mom · June 2012

MandeeFoFandee:
MoFree:
Jillwithani:
I will be the first to admit that I do all of the above. It's a terrible terrible thing but I'm slowly pulling back to doing it just while stuck in traffic (which is 2 hrs a day). Mostly work related but still I know it's bad.
Maybe seeing photos of the crash aftermath would change your habits. And the young woman responsible for this devastation escaped with only a few scratches.
wait, so did you just ask people to confess, and then you're going to "teach them a lesson" about their habits? she's admitting that she knows it's wrong and is trying to change... why berate her? I understand your position on the issue and why it's personal for you, but that doesn't mean you have the right to call people out for it.
my mother died of lung cancer at 38 years old, but I don't lecture every person I see smoking...

The effects of smoking harm the ones smoking (although there are arguments about second hand smoke too). Using your phone while deiving endangers everyone on the road. I don't respect ANY cell phone use while driving.... Even talking. MIL uses her phone while driving and you better believe she is never driving my child anywhere.

DeputiesWife · June 2012

Andreabks:
to play devils advocate a bit here, (i'll admit i rarely text at long stop lights, or make a quick call telling DH i'm on my way)

but if the point of making texting and talking while driving illegal in most states was to limit distracted driving, why aren't we making laws against eating food or putting on makeup?

story on our news this morning was from a guy speeding and eating fast food while driving last night, hit 2 other cars before flipping his several times over.

so if we're going to continue to regulate people acting rediculous, where are we planning to stop? That lady putting on mascara is just as distracted at the person the next car over answering a text.

I believe this along with reading the newspaper and shaving are illegal in DC. Im not 100% sure though.

DeputiesWife · June 2012

Scout2005:
Andreabks:
Scout2005:
Andreabks:

but if the point of making texting and talking while driving illegal in most states was to limit distracted driving, why aren't we making laws against eating food or putting on makeup?

They are proposing just that in many states.

There is nothing so important that it can't wait until you get where you are going. If something that important did come up, pull over and text then.

I agree, but when did it become the governments job to regulate this stuff? where i live in CA this law goes mostly un-checked because we simply do not have the law enforcement personell to bother. They don't respond to home breakins unless there is threat of bodily harm, or to traffic accidents unless someone physically gets hurt. There is not enough manpower to pull over every distracted driver, speeder etc. Is it right? no! but at what point do we all start taking responsibility for our own actions and stop asking the goverment to tell us what is ok or not.
having a cell phone law (which we passed texting before we bothered with talking hands free here in CA) hasn't done much to decrease the occurences. at least not in the part of CA i live in.
Well, we have seat belt laws. And car seat laws. And drunk driving laws.
So...it's been their job for awhile?
People who text and drive - or drink and drive, or put on make up and drive - put me and my kid at risk. Step in all you want, government.
Around here, they will pull you over in a heartbeat if they see you texting at a red light or talking on the phone while driving. It is heavily enforced.

same here.

There are also grants here that provide LEO's with OT to conduct traffic stops for this purpose.

MoFree · June 2012

Baker_Bride:
MandeeFoFandee:
MoFree:
Jillwithani:
I will be the first to admit that I do all of the above. It's a terrible terrible thing but I'm slowly pulling back to doing it just while stuck in traffic (which is 2 hrs a day). Mostly work related but still I know it's bad.
Maybe seeing photos of the crash aftermath would change your habits. And the young woman responsible for this devastation escaped with only a few scratches.
wait, so did you just ask people to confess, and then you're going to "teach them a lesson" about their habits? she's admitting that she knows it's wrong and is trying to change... why berate her? I understand your position on the issue and why it's personal for you, but that doesn't mean you have the right to call people out for it.
my mother died of lung cancer at 38 years old, but I don't lecture every person I see smoking...
The effects of smoking harm the ones smoking (although there are arguments about second hand smoke too). Using your phone while deiving endangers everyone on the road. I don't respect ANY cell phone use while driving.... Even talking. MIL uses her phone while driving and you better believe she is never driving my child anywhere.

Mandee, I am sorry about your mother's death from smoking. However, she chose to smoke. My husband did not choose to be plowed into. Big difference.

MandeeFoFandee · June 2012

Baker_Bride:
MandeeFoFandee:
MoFree:
Jillwithani:
I will be the first to admit that I do all of the above. It's a terrible terrible thing but I'm slowly pulling back to doing it just while stuck in traffic (which is 2 hrs a day). Mostly work related but still I know it's bad.
Maybe seeing photos of the crash aftermath would change your habits. And the young woman responsible for this devastation escaped with only a few scratches.
wait, so did you just ask people to confess, and then you're going to "teach them a lesson" about their habits? she's admitting that she knows it's wrong and is trying to change... why berate her? I understand your position on the issue and why it's personal for you, but that doesn't mean you have the right to call people out for it.
my mother died of lung cancer at 38 years old, but I don't lecture every person I see smoking...
The effects of smoking harm the ones smoking (although there are arguments about second hand smoke too). Using your phone while deiving endangers everyone on the road. I don't respect ANY cell phone use while driving.... Even talking. MIL uses her phone while driving and you better believe she is never driving my child anywhere.

touche. my main point was that it's really not fair to ask people to confess their wrongdoings and then lecture them for it. yes, we all agree it's wrong and dangerous (to yourselves AND others) to text/talk while driving. I don't think yelling at people on a message board is going to make people wake up and smell the coffee.

DemoDoll · June 2012

Scout2005:
DemoDoll:

Cutting something cold turkey isn't for everyone. You asked and they are stating truthfully what they are doing.

We aren't talking about cigarettes or hard drugs, FFS.

It's texting while driving. I promise there are no physical side-effects from knocking it off here and now.

Did I say that there would be side effects from cutting cold turkey on texting and driving? No! I said that it's hard for people to break habits!

The OP could give people a break. They were fessing up to a habit but also saying they are taking steps to quit. I know I can't cut anything cold turkey if it's a habit I have. If I could, I'd be super model skinny and have a lot more money in the bank. Two of my habits are junk food and spending money on stupid things I don't need. I have gotten so much better at these habits but I still have them. They also aren't something that will give me side-effects if I cut them cold turkey, but I'm only human....

MoFree · June 2012

MandeeFoFandee:
Baker_Bride:
MandeeFoFandee:
MoFree:
Jillwithani:
I will be the first to admit that I do all of the above. It's a terrible terrible thing but I'm slowly pulling back to doing it just while stuck in traffic (which is 2 hrs a day). Mostly work related but still I know it's bad.
Maybe seeing photos of the crash aftermath would change your habits. And the young woman responsible for this devastation escaped with only a few scratches.
wait, so did you just ask people to confess, and then you're going to "teach them a lesson" about their habits? she's admitting that she knows it's wrong and is trying to change... why berate her? I understand your position on the issue and why it's personal for you, but that doesn't mean you have the right to call people out for it.
my mother died of lung cancer at 38 years old, but I don't lecture every person I see smoking...
The effects of smoking harm the ones smoking (although there are arguments about second hand smoke too). Using your phone while deiving endangers everyone on the road. I don't respect ANY cell phone use while driving.... Even talking. MIL uses her phone while driving and you better believe she is never driving my child anywhere.
touche. my main point was that it's really not fair to ask people to confess their wrongdoings and then lecture them for it. yes, we all agree it's wrong and dangerous (to yourselves AND others) to text/talk while driving. I don't think yelling at people on a message board is going to make people wake up and smell the coffee.

What do you suggest would be the way or ways to get people to stop? It seems that people know it is dangerous, it is illegal in many places yet they persist. What is your suggestion?

MandeeFoFandee · June 2012

Scout2005:
MandeeFoFandee:
I don't think yelling at people on a message board is going to make people wake up and smell the coffee.
LOUD NOISES
Everyone agrees with me now, right?

I pretty much always agree with you, Scout!

MoFree · June 2012

DemoDoll:
Scout2005:
DemoDoll:

Cutting something cold turkey isn't for everyone. You asked and they are stating truthfully what they are doing.

We aren't talking about cigarettes or hard drugs, FFS.

It's texting while driving. I promise there are no physical side-effects from knocking it off here and now.

Did I say that there would be side effects from cutting cold turkey on texting and driving? No! I said that it's hard for people to break habits!

The OP could give people a break. They were fessing up to a habit but also saying they are taking steps to quit. I know I can't cut anything cold turkey if it's a habit I have. If I could, I'd be super model skinny and have a lot more money in the bank. Two of my habits are junk food and spending money on stupid things I don't need. I have gotten so much better at these habits but I still have them. They also aren't something that will give me side-effects if I cut them cold turkey, but I'm only human....

I!m sorry but that is not a good example. Your eating and spending habits are not endangering anyone's safety while dangerous driving does.

MandeeFoFandee · June 2012

MoFree:
MandeeFoFandee:
Baker_Bride:
MandeeFoFandee:
MoFree:
Jillwithani:
I will be the first to admit that I do all of the above. It's a terrible terrible thing but I'm slowly pulling back to doing it just while stuck in traffic (which is 2 hrs a day). Mostly work related but still I know it's bad.
Maybe seeing photos of the crash aftermath would change your habits. And the young woman responsible for this devastation escaped with only a few scratches.
wait, so did you just ask people to confess, and then you're going to "teach them a lesson" about their habits? she's admitting that she knows it's wrong and is trying to change... why berate her? I understand your position on the issue and why it's personal for you, but that doesn't mean you have the right to call people out for it.
my mother died of lung cancer at 38 years old, but I don't lecture every person I see smoking...
The effects of smoking harm the ones smoking (although there are arguments about second hand smoke too). Using your phone while deiving endangers everyone on the road. I don't respect ANY cell phone use while driving.... Even talking. MIL uses her phone while driving and you better believe she is never driving my child anywhere.
touche. my main point was that it's really not fair to ask people to confess their wrongdoings and then lecture them for it. yes, we all agree it's wrong and dangerous (to yourselves AND others) to text/talk while driving. I don't think yelling at people on a message board is going to make people wake up and smell the coffee.
What do you suggest would be the way or ways to get people to stop? It seems that people know it is dangerous, it is illegal in many places yet they persist. What is your suggestion?

unfortunately, the majority of the population are idiots and are completely reliant on technology and will probably not stop unless they face something tragic. I have no problem waiting to check my phone... but that's because I really am not on it much to begin with. some people feel as if they can't live without checking their phones every 2 seconds - are they stupid? yes. will a law make them stop? clearly, no. sad, but true.

MandeeFoFandee · June 2012

sorry, just realized that I didn't really provide any suggestions. I guess that's because I don't really have any. people will always push the limits - they'll continue to do dangerous things until it affects them negatively.

there are millions of dollars spent on advertising to prevent people from smoking, but they still do it (not the same thing, I know). even though drinking & driving is illegal and dangerous, people still do it. it's unfortunate, but the current generation as a whole is a selfish one.

DemoDoll · June 2012

Scout2005:
DemoDoll:
Scout2005:
DemoDoll:

Cutting something cold turkey isn't for everyone. You asked and they are stating truthfully what they are doing.

We aren't talking about cigarettes or hard drugs, FFS.

It's texting while driving. I promise there are no physical side-effects from knocking it off here and now.

Did I say that there would be side effects from cutting cold turkey on texting and driving? No! I said that it's hard for people to break habits!

The OP could give people a break. They were fessing up to a habit but also saying they are taking steps to quit. I know I can't cut anything cold turkey if it's a habit I have. If I could, I'd be super model skinny and have a lot more money in the bank. Two of my habits are junk food and spending money on stupid things I don't need. I have gotten so much better at these habits but I still have them. They also aren't something that will give me side-effects if I cut them cold turkey, but I'm only human....

These things don't endanger the lives of others. Therefore, you taking your time on curbing them are NBD. It's your prerogative and your life.

Comparing them to texting and driving is just ludicrous.

I wasn't trying to compare them to text in driving and their dangers. Just that habits are habits! Everyone knows how horrible texting and driving is and what kind of risk they are putting others at. But everyone is human and it may take more than just 1 day to kick the horrible habit.

Speeding, eating, and putting on make up are all habits that are dangerous for others as well. Maybe I should have used those to compare. I used to do ALL of those on a daily basis. After attending a mandatory safety class at my work, I no longer do any of them but it did take some time for me to cut them out completely.

MoFree · June 2012

Scout2005:
DemoDoll, I'm sorry, but your argument just really doesn't work in the case of unsafe driving practices.
I am a creature of habit too. No one is arguing that habits are hard to break.
But by not "quitting cold turkey" the general "you" continue to endanger others on the road. So what, you decide you'll only do it three times instead of your normal five to start, and then down to two a week later, etc?
And in one of those three times you drive my car - with my children in it - off the road because you aren't paying attention. It doesn't matter that you were doing it less than you used to, or that you had a plan of weaning off of it. My kids and I are still hurt because you couldn't unplug from the Internet for a five minute drive.
I'm sorry it's hard to quit things. In this situation, the only answer is get over it and knock it off. How would anyone here feel if they killed someone because they were effing TEXTING or checking FB? I mean...there's no rationale that makes it okay and trying to say it's hard to quit things is lame in this scenario.
Life is hard. Oh well.

????

rp-chicago-mom · June 2012

MoFree:
MandeeFoFandee:
Baker_Bride:
MandeeFoFandee:
MoFree:
Jillwithani:
I will be the first to admit that I do all of the above. It's a terrible terrible thing but I'm slowly pulling back to doing it just while stuck in traffic (which is 2 hrs a day). Mostly work related but still I know it's bad.
Maybe seeing photos of the crash aftermath would change your habits. And the young woman responsible for this devastation escaped with only a few scratches.
wait, so did you just ask people to confess, and then you're going to "teach them a lesson" about their habits? she's admitting that she knows it's wrong and is trying to change... why berate her? I understand your position on the issue and why it's personal for you, but that doesn't mean you have the right to call people out for it.
my mother died of lung cancer at 38 years old, but I don't lecture every person I see smoking...
The effects of smoking harm the ones smoking (although there are arguments about second hand smoke too). Using your phone while deiving endangers everyone on the road. I don't respect ANY cell phone use while driving.... Even talking. MIL uses her phone while driving and you better believe she is never driving my child anywhere.
touche. my main point was that it's really not fair to ask people to confess their wrongdoings and then lecture them for it. yes, we all agree it's wrong and dangerous (to yourselves AND others) to text/talk while driving. I don't think yelling at people on a message board is going to make people wake up and smell the coffee.
What do you suggest would be the way or ways to get people to stop? It seems that people know it is dangerous, it is illegal in many places yet they persist. What is your suggestion?

I realize I didn't also point out that smoking sort of does carry its own legal penalties. The taxes on cigarettes are ridiculous because of how expensive it is to treat those who get sick from it. My mother has had myriad health issues from it including quadruple bypass surgery. It's illegal to text or talk while driving here but it doesn't matter because the cops don't do anything about it.

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