What is the world coming to!?

Move to ban iPods from crossing the street
Telegraph.co.uk

A New York state Senator is proposing a law to make it illegal to walk, jog or bike across the street while using an iPod, a BlackBerry or any other electronic device.

State Senator Carl Kruger said: “If you’re so involved in your electronic device that you can’t see or hear a car coming, this is indicative of a larger problem that requires some sort of enforcement beyond the applicaton of common sense."

Sen Kruger said a 21-year-old man in his district was killed last winter when he stepped off the curb at the busy intersection while listening to music. And a 23-year-old iPod listener was killed Jan11.

“You could have a fire engine coming and you wouldn’t hear it,” said Jason Koppel, Sen Kruger’s chief of staff.

The proposed ban - on iPods, mobile phones, BlackBerries, video games or other electronic devices when crossing the street - will be introduced this week, Mr Koppel said. He was not aware of other states or cities with a similar ban.

The proposed fine? $100 (€77).

Charlotte Troisgros, 16, a student talking on her mobile phone on the street, laughed and said the law may not be such a bad idea. “You really don’t pay attention. You might get hit by a car,” she said.