My column several weeks ago on cell phones generated some feedback on how annoying they are in public. You can’t get away from cell phones no matter where you go. They are everywhere, and some people are constantly talking on them even in the most public of places, much to the chagrin of those around them. It is annoying to be in a check out lane with someone in front of you yakking on a cell phone while the clerk is trying to check them out.

I’ve noticed more and more professional offices asking they be turned off upon entering the building. Occasionally, I’ve even heard a cell phone ring in church service. I’m confident it wasn’t God calling.

The April issue of Reader’s Digest pointed out some very interesting stats concerning safe highways and cell phones. Nineteen states have already banned handheld cell phones while driving and another 23 are considering legislation to do so. Congress has four pieces of legislation before them to ban handheld cell phone use while driving nationwide. The statistics point out that a whopping 28 percent of accidents nation wide are attributed to cell phone use or texting.

Cell phones account for 1.4 million accidents per year in the United States. Another 200,000 are attributed to texting while driving. Studies indicate that hands-free cell phones are no safer than handheld devices.

Driving is a privilege granted on the condition you do so responsibly and safely.

James G. Smith is a local columnist.