To the editor:

Having spent over a decade driving 50 to 125 miles a day in and around Lawrence, I think I’ve seen it all.

Cell phones are truly a hazard, especially for inexperienced drivers. On more than one occasion, teens have pulled out in front of me while talking on their cell phone. As I screech to a halt, they smile sheepishly and speed away, never missing a syllable in their ongoing conversation.

The idea of banning cell phones is a good one. However, there are drawbacks. In my work day, communication to the office, parts suppliers, clients, etc., are necessary for the service that we provide. Many other businesses depend on communication as well.

Dilemma: How do we keep communication open for businesses and still address the issue of the dangers of unrestricted cell phone use?

Suggestion: A certificate of completion from a city-mandated class. The cost of the class, facility and instructors could be covered by a one-time fee collected at the class site. I wouldn’t be surprised if the insurance industry wouldn’t jump at the chance to address a class about the cost of accidents and the cost to the individual who is involved in an accident.

Other than enforcing a new traffic ordinance, there would be no burden on the police. The city would have no financial burden as the classes would be student-funded. The burden would be on the driver to have completed the class and possess a certificate of completion if stopped for the “cell-phone safety” ordinance.

Robert Leffler,

Lawrence