SMOKING IMPEDES SAFE DRIVING
WRECK-LESS DRIVING ©
by Gunther Doerfert, Auto Safety Columnist
SMOKING IMPEDES SAFE DRIVING
LEEWOOD, KS: At dusk The Harveys were waiting at the traffic light on State Line Rd and took notice of the auto just ahead. Two senior adults in the front and two grandchildren in the back seats. Must have been safety conscious grandparents because everyone was belted in place.
Actually, it was somewhat difficult for the Harveys to see through this vehicle's tightly closed, untinted windows. There was heavy smoke inside. Grandpa was at the wheel, with a cigarette in one hand. So much for his safety consciousness! One handed driving, especially for persons who may have age related reduced acuities is asking for trouble.
Worse yet, smoking of tobacco produces carbon monoxide, a deadly gas which accumulates in the bloodstream. In lower doses it can affect night vision by impairing the eyes ability to adapt to the dark. The smoke fogs the windshield and distracts the driver's attention, making night driving quite hazardous. And, what about the effect of that captive second-hand smoke on others in the auto, such as Grandma and the children?
Tell us your pet peeves about driving situations and they will be discussed in future columns. What dangerous driving conditions have you seen which you would like to share with other readers of this column,
GHD 104 all rights reserved
by Gunther Doerfert, Auto Safety Columnist
SMOKING IMPEDES SAFE DRIVING
LEEWOOD, KS: At dusk The Harveys were waiting at the traffic light on State Line Rd and took notice of the auto just ahead. Two senior adults in the front and two grandchildren in the back seats. Must have been safety conscious grandparents because everyone was belted in place.
Actually, it was somewhat difficult for the Harveys to see through this vehicle's tightly closed, untinted windows. There was heavy smoke inside. Grandpa was at the wheel, with a cigarette in one hand. So much for his safety consciousness! One handed driving, especially for persons who may have age related reduced acuities is asking for trouble.
Worse yet, smoking of tobacco produces carbon monoxide, a deadly gas which accumulates in the bloodstream. In lower doses it can affect night vision by impairing the eyes ability to adapt to the dark. The smoke fogs the windshield and distracts the driver's attention, making night driving quite hazardous. And, what about the effect of that captive second-hand smoke on others in the auto, such as Grandma and the children?
Tell us your pet peeves about driving situations and they will be discussed in future columns. What dangerous driving conditions have you seen which you would like to share with other readers of this column,
GHD 104 all rights reserved
posted by WRECK-LESS at Saturday, February 04, 2006
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