Driving on the LA freeways yesterday, there was a message on the periodic amber signs. That is, drivers will need to use hands-free mobile devices if they want to talk on their cell phones.
And, yes, it's caused a stir (LA folks love their cars and cell phones -- hey, it's a lifestyle here). At the same time, I've almost got into a few accidents because of another driver's cell phone use (and, in some cases, texting).
But, will the new California law make any difference?
Well, according to a piece in the Daily Breeze, the answer may be: it depends.
For example, Larry Rosen, who is a psychology professor at the California State University, Dominguez Hills, believes that the law doesn't address the core problem. Basically, cell phone use -- whether hands-free or not -- is a distraction (known as "inattention blindness").
Of course, there are a variety of studies on the topic. Unfortunately, the conclusions are mixed. In other words, it's pretty tough to isolate cause-and-effect on a large scale.
There is one thing that's certain: the new law should result in a boost in hands-free device sales by such makers as Motorola (NYSE: MOT) and Nokia (NYSE: NOK).
So, to learn more about the new law, you can check out CA Hands-Free.
Tom Taulli is the author of various books, including The Complete M&A Handbook
Why isn't Bank of America updating its shareholders on CEO situation?
Before the bell: Futures sharply lower on Dubai's debt problems
Will Rich Ross really have a positive impact on Disney's movie operations?
