I remember thinking earlier in the year, is it this year the new cell phone law goes into effect? I admit I have developed a bad habit of making my calls as I am driving, especially when I am on long drives and getting bored. The new law means I have to either purchase a hands-free headset or attach one of those things to my ear if I want to keep my bad habit.

Debating on the need to purchase a headset or not, I began to think of how I use my cell phone.

I initially got the phone as a safety measure. It gave me a sense of security when I drove alone, especially on the country roads, even more so at night. Over time I got used to being able to make calls while I was driving – letting a friend know I was almost there, making plans for dinner at home, returning calls that I could have made before I left home.

But honestly, I can’t think of a call that I absolutely had to make while driving. Anything really important I could have pulled over to make or made once I arrived. So I have decided for now, that I will work on changing my habit instead of buying more electronic devices. I started last week so hopefully I will be used to it by July 1. We’ll see.

I suspect most people who rely on their cell phones already have hands-free devices and probably have been using them for quite a long time, regardless of the new law.

My husband Ken is one of those people. He relies on his phone for work as do so many people these days. Offices are mobile now and communication between employees and employers, customers and vendors takes place via cell phones and e-mails. Ken switched to hands-free years ago, first a headset and now an ear piece. It’s easier on him to drive; it not only frees both hands for the wheel but is more comfortable for his neck and shoulders.

I am not totally convinced that being hands free necessarily provides him better attention ability to his driving, but it does enable him to keep looking forward and not down at the phone or moving around to reach for the phone.

The new law is probably going to be hardest on the kids under 18. Cell phones and especially texting is so much a part of their communication; it is going to be a big adjustment for them I suspect. Hopefully overtime it will be one that helps them develop even safer driving habits than their adult teachers.

Like Gustine Police Chief Devon Stavrowsky said, it’s just a behavior modification and, hey, I think it may just help me slow down a bit and plan ahead, make those calls before I leave and give my whole attention to the road. Although, once I start singing with my favorite CD…..

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