And what about people reading while walking? Newspapers are dangerous too!

I didn't even think of that Lani. You're so right! I'm guilty of reading sometimes while I'm walking. Not in the crosswalks of course (I'm scared of those taxi drivers). But yes, whether it's electronic or print or whatever you can think of, it's not going to stop accidents from happening.

i think lani may have multiple-personalities, too. that can't make walking through an intersection any safer...

While I'm skeptical of the source (fox news) I'm worried if this is true. I mean honestly, if the statistics are really that alarming, let's see them-they should be public knowledge and then let the public outcry take it from there. I hesitate that people in New York City are just strolling into traffic because they're absorbed in their music or on their blackberry. :/

I think someone by the name of Darwin explained what is happening here.

And what will happen to the Darwin Awards if we keep protecting these people???

I agree, Phoenix. Let's see the numbers and the correlation!!

Old dude is just trying to get his name out!

Probably should ban chewing gum too. I hear some folks have a problem walking and chewing gum at the same time. Coffee should be considered too!!

Seriously folk: Are parents & guardians not teaching our younger ones about self control? So many of our ills can be related to stupidity but self control AND self preservation should be preeminient. Driving vs. cellphone conversaions, too casual sex. electing dummies to the W.H., etc. all can be destructive!

Won't work. Just make it legal to run over anyone using an IPod or cell phone.

Come on. More people are being hurt by the irresponsible use of cell phones than tasers or lasers, but you wonder why they are legal and think the NY proposal is rediculous. Which is it? Or do you just support restricting electronics that you don't use? What about razors and hair dryers?
Let's see a real objective report or list your work as an opinion piece.

@ Postmaster: your reasoning is odd. I'll wager there are millions more cell phones in general use than lasers and tasers combined. On the other hand, a combination cell phone/taser is an intriguing idea, especially for NYC pedestrians...

This is just more government control! The fact is, there are already hundreds of laws that deal with accidents and negligent acts. By adding more laws like this, these lawmakers feel more empowered, renew the false sense that they are really doing something constructive, and actually make the situation worse by clouding the real issue - personal responsibility!

For example: Me hitting you with my vehicle because you unexpectedly stepped into my path, is a tragic accident, but unintentional on my part; however, putting yourself into harm's way and damaging my vehicle, is negligence on your part.

Where would the government draw the line and say that you have to assume some responsibility for yourself. Reading a book? Reading the newspaper? How about, just lost in thought - daydreaming as you walked along?

We have too many laws as it is, and it is not the government's responsibility to save us from ourselves - at least I don't see that in the Constitution.

/begin rant
Some of these comments above are absolutely absurd. Maybe mommy and daddy shouldn't let you on the computers anymore.

James Grant's post hit the nail on the head. It's called "responsibility", plus a little bit of common sense. I know, some liberals don't like those words because they can't sue someone when they don't apply either of them. But for Pete sake, can't anyone accept responsibility for their own self anymore? America is going to Hell in a hand basket because no one wants to assume responsibility for their own actions or lack thereof.

I think the easiest thing is to make one law - Don't breathe if you are an idiot! I know, I know! The body count would be devastating. But hey, we'd solve unemployment by the number of people we'd have to employ to clean up the bodies! That would solve 90% of the problems here...
/end rant

Want a safer street? Should just ban cars in NYC

I don't care so much about the actual bill he's planning to introduce, it will never pass. The real issue is that here is an elected Senator who is obviously completely out of touch with the people he is supposed to represent. Mobile devices are part of our daily life and the Senator may have good intent, but he needs a reality check.

Herge

The Senator has sponsored 351 Bills so far during this legislative session. You can see them/read them at > http://www.nyssenate27.com/Redirect.asp

Bills like this one are ill conceived, destined to go nowhere, and, are a waste, ultimately, of tax-payer's money.

They also confirm the wisdom of Oregon's scheme of having a legislative session every OTHER year!!

this is just really rediculous.what is next we have to pay to breathe.i thought this was a free country. i never knew we were all soon to be put in restriction.

this is just really rediculous.what is next we have to pay to breathe.i thought this was a free country. i never knew we were all soon to be put in restriction.