With all the hoopla of the use of cell phones while driving, we tend to forget the other distractions. How about swilling a cup of Timmy's while driving, eating a sandwich, arguing with your significant other, rubbernecking an accident or driving with a dog in your lap (I've seen this)?
Even fiddling with the car radio can be dangerous in the right circumstance. I'm not saying we should drive with our knuckles white clinging to the wheel while gazing fixedly out the windshield, but a little more common sense and attention to detail of those around us would go a long way. As the penalties imposed, they don't scare enough idiots to stop doing it.
A solution could be a heavy fine for the first offense. impoundment of the vehicle for thirty days for the second offense and car goes to the crusher for the third offense. That may sound draconian but guaranteed there would be very few third offenses. This could apply to impaired driving, too.
George Getty
Prince George
