This is the video every DISTRACTED DRIVER must watch

[TheTibetanMonkey]

While the video addresses TEXTING as the particular cause of this accident, you may use your imagination to include TALKING ON THE CELL, DUI or whatever. Don't tell me that it's gross, because the anti-smoking campaign have been cranking up some ads that are beyond nasty. This is an ad the automobile industry doesn't want you to see...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8I54m...layer_embedded

Wow, a lot of mayhem and death. Not always is a pedestrian or a cyclist that you kill. It could be you or your loved ones. Forget the tantalizing ads from lawyers that you may be paid big bucks for having survived an accident. They are real, they are serious, they can happen any time.

WISDOM OF THE JUNGLE: PREVENTION

Make all distracted driving as bad as DUI. I don't care if you drink, I don't care if you smoke. Have a Plan B: Ride a bike or walk if you do. Take public transportation or take a taxi.

[TheTibetanMonkey]

> The gloves have always been off in that fight. About time the good
> guys got tough.

However it seems as if there was a silent conspiracy never to offend the drivers who are a little "less than perfect" because they are "only human." In my book though this is not an accident, just CAUSE & EFFECT.

It's better for society to have scapegoats such as the drunk than face itself in the mirror. 5 year drivers license suspension for texting or cell phone use will make them think twice.

Mandatory cycling required to get his license back. You know what, that's how cyclists got the "reputation" as drunks. From now they could be texters or cell phone addicts as well.

[TheTibetanMonkey]

(Take it down if you may, but this is some hardcore criticism of the status quo, which is all about hypocrisy)

I reply to some guy and a lively exchange comes out:

> Oh, sorry - I didn't see the video (no Flash Player).

So, you saw it? It feels like the real thing, hundreds of accidents happening EVERY DAY around the world, and most of them preventable.

Every driver should watch it to know the potential consequences of their actions.

>
> (I know what you mean about those quit smoking ads, though - jeez
> louise! The other side is so abominable, though; it's kind of cool to
> see them doing whatever it takes.)

I quit 15 years ago and I agree that's a stupid addiction. But you what, I could probably be HAPPIER smoking --being a couch potato-- than struggling to ride a bike. I don't believe in quitting things and then sitting on my ass. I must have another addiction, POSITIVE this time, and that is riding a bike.

I can not sit down like the Buddha and be happy.

The thing about these anti-smoking ads is that they either too graphic or are plain dishonest. For example, "smoking destroys your lungs"... true, but the lungs are YOURS and nobody can tell you what to do with it other that ban it in public places. Now, "your car's smoke pollutes everybody's lungs and destroys the planet."

You will never see that one on public TV because that's a desirable "addiction" for big oil and car manufacturers. No warning labels or nothing. People still deny they are polluting the whole planet.

> Maybe $500 fine for first offense (if no one was harmed).

It's illegal in places like NY and Australia and still the fines don't seem to deter violators.

>
> > Mandatory cycling required to get his license back.
>
> Hmm... intriguing; but not just for violators - for everyone who wants
> a license (trikes and e-bikes okay w/ a [legitimate] doctor's note).
> This not only engenders sympathy, but with clueless dorks pedaling all
> over the place every day trying to get their license, maybe motorist
> won't mind those of us who know what we're doing quite so much; and a
> lot of them will find they really like it, and one less car.

Actually I had that idea too. Perhaps they feel superior because they got a license and they don't. They sure got a license to kill.

>
> > You know what,
> > that's how cyclists got the "reputation" as drunks.
>
> Mine came from the mere mention of tipsy wheelying to Flawless Frank
> of The Fantastic Indestructable House of Glass.

I can ride a bike with a glass of wine and not spill it. Or I can have my favorite drink (TibetanMonkey OJ) which consists of orange juice and tonic water (tequila optional) and still not spill it.

Kidding, pedaling and drinking don't mix that much. It's another story though when the bike is electric.

> > From now they
> > could be texters or cell phone addicts as well.
>
> Not this kid. (I *hate* my damn cell phone.)

You know, it's quite compatible with a beach cruiser or Dutch bike though not recommended. The Dutch ladies are famous for applying make up while riding. That's something to behold.

Now look at this shit. Who wants to watch this while eating?

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-YjrkBYDDQM

What the young people need is SOMETHING TO DO, other than SMOKING OR CRIME. And that's bicycling.

[TheTibetanMonkey]

> > What the young people need is SOMETHING TO DO, other than SMOKING OR
> > CRIME. And that's bicycling.
>
> in uniform?

It must be fully proletarian and romantic...

(please watch video)

http://www.theflyingpigeon.com/

How about renaming it the "Flying Monkey" to erase its totalitarian image? I like that.