While texting friends has become second nature for some drivers, Oregon lawmakers have taken steps to stop this activity on the road. People on the roads are now expected to curb their communication with the outside world until they are no longer behind the wheel. Though it may not be the most popular law enacted by our government, many people–including students here at Corban–are readily supporting the bill.
“It should have happened a long time ago…people can get too wrapped up into conversations.” Mary Leal, a senior health science major, said.
This law has enabled drivers to once more focus on the road, putting the distraction of the phone out of their hands and hopefully off their minds. Other students were less enthusiastic about the changes in their daily commute. They expressed frustration at not being able to send a simple, one word reply, though they did admit that they would probably send more than that if there was no law against it.
Kyle Doty said: “It’s probably better, [but] it’s kind of annoying.”
Not being able to keep in contact with friends has caused some twitching thumbs, but most students seem to agree that in the long run it is probably for the best.
According to a study by Virginia Tech Transportation Institute, drivers who are texting are 23 times more likely to get in a wreck than drivers who are undistracted. With such chances, having a law discouraging such a practice might be considered a good thing.
Not so, says Jessie Jones, a junior history major. Her concern is not in the area of texting but in the fact that the government is enacting another law. She believes that people are smart enough to figure out what is good for them without excessive government intervention.
This laws goal is to make Oregon’s road a safer place. Bill DeHaven, a senior communications major, said, “Considering the ability of Oregon drivers, we are probably all better off with the new law, I mean, I know I feel safer.”