US ban on driver cell phone use not realistic

[Commentary] The National Transportation Safety Board certainly attracted attention this week with its recommendation that states ban all forms of cell-phone use while driving - even with hands-free devices. As a practical matter, such a ban is not going to happen - nor should it.

Americans are too attached to their cell phones and their cars to break their 24/7 dependence on either. An attempt to ban all calls would inspire a revolt that would make the Occupy Wall Street and Tea Party uprisings seem quaint by comparison. Still, the board's recommendation - based on evidence of crashes in which electronic distraction was a significant factor - should give pause to those who allow their driving duty to become secondary to that very important call. Responsible drivers limit their call time, use hands-free devices and never lose sight of their obligation to keep their eyes - and minds - on the road. They should not be punished for the recklessness of drivers who can and should be ticketed for breaking existing laws.