Blog Posts by Alice Miles

Just read that Ford has become the first US automaker to back a nationwide ban on the use of handheld devices by drivers. Ford has endorsed a proposal by Rep. Carolyn McCarthy (D., NY) that calls for national legislation limiting driver device use. Ford states that the ban is a "practical, commonsense approach to a national problem."

On the other hand, GM has stated that they have had a simple message for years, "Put the phone down and drive." GM then went on to say, "We're not certain what meaningful effect a federal ban would have at this time as these issues typically reside with state and local enforcement."

Two different approaches sharing a common goal -- reducing distracted driving. As for me, I admit that I am a big-time handheld cell phone user and have been since my good old "bag phone." I like to think that I am less distracted than others who are using other forms of technology but if pressed, I'll agree that at times my phone has distracted me.

Tell us what you think --- federal legislation required or not?

Posted by Alice Miles, Regional Director, Government Relations, Polk (07.13.2011)