Introduction
Thesis Statement
Modern technology has simplified people’s lives in many ways. We can shop and book tickets online, enjoy access to exhibits in museums and art galleries that would be impossible to visit in person, and combine every step with communication. Mobile phones are great devices when it comes to saving time, for example, when going somewhere to talk to another person or checking how children are doing while away from parents. However, are our smartphones entirely beneficial? To my mind, certain dangers are hidden behind their colorful and peaceful wallpapers. There are occasions when looking at a picture of a favorite landscape or a beloved person may become an individual’s final act.
Moreover, being distracted by mobile devices can cause harm not only to their owners but also to total strangers who merely happen to be in the wrong place at the wrong time. I am convinced that using a phone while driving is one of the most dangerous acts for several reasons: Drivers get distracted and overstressed, they may cause an accident and get hurt, and finally, they may cause harm to other people.
The First Argument
In his article “Phone Makers Could Cut Off Drivers. So Why Don’t They?”, Matt Richtel discusses the possibility for phone manufacturers to eliminate drivers’ access to their devices while on the road. In my opinion, violating the rules of limiting the use of phones by drivers indeed leads to a “grisly picture” (Richtel). A growing number of news reports depict disastrous outcomes of texting or talking on the phone while driving. People think that they can cope with everything, but in fact, multitasking causes more stress than convenience. Therefore, I believe that citizens should be allowed to choose only one of these two options: Either drive or communicate.
The Second Argument
I am not alone thinking that driving and texting or talking on the phone is a bad idea. Even the companies that produce mobile phones admit that their products can be employed for “illegal, dangerous, and sometimes deadly activity” (Richtel). Despite a variety of social advertisements, people cannot escape their obsession with their devices, which frequently leads to accidents that result in differing levels of harm. Unfortunately, admitting the problem does not add up to the same thing as being ready to resolve it. Smartphone corporations are afraid to introduce limitations for drivers as the new regulations can decrease consumers’ loyalty and sales (Richtel).
The Third Argument
However, the biggest tragedy is not in people hurting themselves but in there causing serious damage to others. Numerous cases of negligent driving that led to people’s injuries or deaths have been reported (Richtel). I believe that technologies should be adjusted in a way that would not allow drivers to put anyone’s life—including their own—in danger. It is obvious that we are not almighty, and there is nothing wrong with admitting that. We are just human beings who have only two hands and one head, and we should consider carefully where our minds should be focused while driving.
Conclusion
In my essay, I have attempted to express an opinion about the danger presented by distracted drivers. Technology has certainly made our lives easier, but we should not take them for granted and neglect the risks presented by inattentive behavior. I do believe that every person has the right to operate his or her devices, but I am also convinced that individuals have no right to make themselves comfortable at the cost of other people’s wellbeing.
Work Cited
Richtel, Matt. “Phone Makers Could Cut Off Drivers. So Why Don’t They?” The New York Times. Web.