Driven to distraction

A proposal in the Nebraska Legislature would make it illegal to use cell phones while driving. It's not a new bill -- it's kind of like a life preserver, it just keeps coming up.

There's a difference this year, though. This new bill includes any kind of distraction. Under LB 1108, you could be fined for petting a pet, also a distraction for some drivers.

The unusual part is that you could be fined $100 for such infractions as putting on your makeup while driving, using pen and pencil to write while driving, using a laptop or reading your favorite novel.

In the wide open spaces of Southwest Nebraska, I see little need for a ban on using the cell phone while driving. I've recently been in Lincoln and Omaha, there I can see where the legislation might be appropriate.

I can see where pets may be a distraction -- when you have a golden retriever sitting in your lap while you're driving. Writing a dissertation your laptop in Omaha traffic is probably not the best way to get your work done.

The problem I have with this bill is that drivers wouldn't even be allowed to use handsfree technology to stay connected with their employer, their family, their friends, according to the Associated Press story.

Many of you may be saying, 20 years ago we didn't even have cell phone technology -- you can live without it while you are in the car.

My answer to that is this -- 100 years ago, the average American didn't have cars, would you be willing to give that up?

In other news, a Wyoming woman is suing Union Pacific Railroad for at least $100,000 because she said she contracted the West Nile Virus while working as a conductor for the rail system.

If she wins the suit, it could open a whole can of worms. I've been bitten by so many mosquitoes in so many places, if I ever come down with West Nile, I could sue half the state of Nebraska in hopes of getting rich.

According to the woman's attorney, the responsibility falls on the railroad to protect a safe working environment for its employees.

Common sense tells me a couple of squirts of Deep Woods Off becomes the responsibility of the employee.

I've spent the last three weeks dealing with a cold virus, I can't seem to kick. I'm pretty sure its origins can be traced back to the Gazette. I wonder if this woman's lawyer will be available any time soon?