I don't know why I didn't think of this earlier. Tons of people can't be trusted not to text, surf the Internet, tweet and/or sext from their cell phones when they're behind the wheel, so why would we expect them not to use Google Glass when they're driving? So while Google's "augmented reality" glasses aren't even out yet, at least one state lawmaker hopes to nip this shit in the bud before it ever happens.
CNET reports that West Virginia State Rep. Gary G. Howell was prompted by one of their stories to file a bill in their legislature last week that would outlaw driving while "using a wearable computer with head mounted display."
You'll remember that Google Glass has a HUD that displays information like a smartphone you can wear on your face. Howell explained to CNET that he isn't opposed to Google Glass as a technology, he just thinks it has no business being worn by someone who's driving.
I actually like the idea of the product and I believe it is the future, but last legislature we worked long and hard on a no-texting-and-driving law. It is mostly the young that are the tech-savvy that try new things. They are also our most vulnerable and underskilled drivers. We heard of many crashes caused by texting and driving, most involving our youngest drivers. I see the Google Glass as an extension.
While he said he isn't sure if his bill pass, Howell said that he expects other state legislatures to follow his lead.
I think Howell has a solid point, even if it is a bit premature. Google Glass is still in the testing phase and we don't really know what it can do yet. Should we ban something if we don't know its full capabilities?
Still, from a safety perspective, I can't say I'm in love with the idea of people driving around with things on their faces that distract them from the task of driving.
What do you guys think? Ban the glass or let people do what they want?
Photo credit AP