I can't say the same for other states in the US or even other countries in the world, but I know for a fact that we've passed a law prohibiting texting and driving in recent history. I'm sure that law already took care of driving while on the phone as well, but it's been a few years since I drove so I'm a little out of the loop on that one.
But even with such a law in Korea, you would never know by the way people are always on their cell phones. Currently, there is a fine of 60,000 won for any driver caught using his cell phone while operating a car. The fine goes up to 70,000 for a truck or van driver, and is only 40,000 for a motorcyclist. A lawmaker by the name of Kim So-nam wants to add bicyclists to the list of "vehicles" that would fall under this law. However, this law would only apply to bicyclists riding in bike lines on the road, not your average sidewalk or park biker.
I've seen a number of people using their cell phones whilst riding bikes, and then watched them almost run into a pole, tree, parked car, other bicyclist, or pedestrian. I know it's physically possible to ride a bike with one hand if you've got the skills, but it does put you a little off-balance. And then add in staring at a tiny screen but not looking at what's in front of you? It's a recipe for disaster.
Here, logic would dictate that ALL bicyclists, regardless of location, be prohibited from biking and using a phone. It would save people a lot of damage, personal injury, and frazzled nerves.
How many injuries or accidents might we hear about before the law gets changed again?
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