The City of Kelowna has waded into the debate over banning the use of cell phones in moving vehicles, however, they didn't go far enough for one councillor. A resolution before council Monday asked that the city support the RCMP's initiative to ban the use of cell phones while driving. Council, at the urging of Andre Blanleil, amended the resolution to include only 'hand held' cellular devices. Councillor Michele Rule, says the amendment was one she couldn't endorse. "Because of that amendment, I won't be supporting the motion," says Rule.
"The report in here is very clear that evidence concludes there is no difference between the cognitive diversion associated with hands free and hand held cell phone." Rule says the report which accompanies the resolution spells out the risks. "The passenger is aware of the driving situation, the driving serves as an additional lookout for hazards. The passenger can adjust speech tone and conversation in the driving environment. This report was quite scary." Councillor Charlie Hodge says he's not crazy about hands free devices, however, " my big concern is seeing someone driving around with one hand on the cell phone and making a left turn," says Hodge. "My concern really is with the hand held units. I think that is the number one danger." Council passed the resolution to ask the province to support the RCMP initiative with Councillor Rule voting against.
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