It’s a common sight around campus. Drivers cutting others off, failing to signal turns or lane changes, or running stop signs – and we look over and sigh.

Of course, we say, he’s driving like a jerk because he’s on his cell phone.

Several states are attempting to regulate cell phone use among drivers. In New York it’s against the law to talk on your cell phone without a hands-free device while driving. Arizona, Arkansas and Illinois all prohibit bus drivers from using cell phones, and Maine restricts drivers under age 21 from using cell phones and driving

But will legislation really fix the problem; can we possibly regulate lack of common sense?

The real problem is not cell phones themselves, but our attitude toward driving in general.

We live in a 100-mile-an-hour society. Multi-tasking is a way of life, and for many of us, we are so used to eating on the go, let’s face it, even when the line is wrapping around Taco Bueno, we would rather stay in our cars then hassle with getting out and walking inside.

Modern American society operates on the idea that saving time reigns supreme. We walk up and down the checkout lines at Wal-mart in an endless quest for the shortest line, and get ticked off at someone with 21 items in the 20 items or less line. We microwave everything, get our lunch to go, park as close to class as possible, and yes, talk on our cell phones while walking, driving and even bike riding.

It’s a part of being efficient, yes, but our constant frenzy can lead to carelessness. The endless noise in our heads from cell phones and iPods can cloud our judgment and just one mistake can make us regret our distractions.

The solution lies in using common sense.

Talking on your cell phone and driving is sometimes necessary, but please be sensible when doing so. A moment of convenience or story swapping is not worth someone’s life or even a fender-bender.

Common sense is too good a thing to waste – so please use it. Don’t force the government to baby-sit your cell phone.