["Handy-cap" in street traffic. Mobile telephone considerably affects driving-relevant performance].
The increasing popularity of mobile telephones prompts the question: are they a danger when used while driving? To date, Germany has no law regulating such use. An international enquiry showed that four European and three non-European countries punish the use of mobile phones by drivers. Analysis of scientific studies on the hazard potential of such devices when used in vehicles unequivocally shows a marked impairment of driving performance. Although this cannot be applied to any particular individual, there is indeed a general potential road traffic hazard. There is thus an urgent need to make users aware of the dangers and for legislature to demand the use of no-hand phones in vehicles. A specific punishment by law (inhibition of mobile phones) must be critically discussed.
Institut für Rechtsmedizin, Universität zu Kölin.
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D000063:Accidents, Traffic / Q000331:legislation & jurisprudence* / Q000517:prevention & control; D005858:Germany; D006801:Humans; D012307:Risk Factors; D013689:Telephone / Q000331:legislation & jurisprudence*