In the US state of Ohio, the rules for telephone use behind the wheel are being tightened. It will no longer be allowed to call, app, stream, take pictures, etc. in the car. If you do get caught, you can be fined. “Current Ohio legislation doesn’t go far enough,” said Governor Mike DeWine. “Driving distractions leads to fatal accidents. A culture change is needed. Calling and texting behind the wheel must be just as unacceptable as driving under the influence of alcohol.”
Senator wears seat belt and looks over his shoulder
But it is not yet, according to the behavior of Senator Andrew Brenner. The Republican – who is in favor of a ban on in-car calling – took part in an online meeting, which could be followed live by the public. He first sat in his stationary car, then was offline for some time, then returned to the meeting with an office in the background. However, observant viewers saw that Brenner was wearing a seat belt and turned left, right, or over his shoulder all the time. From time to time his fake background flickered, showing that he was driving.
“I often call behind the wheel,” said politician
Brenner was shameless in front of The Columbus Dispatch. He denies that he was distracted while driving. “I was watching the road and I was listening to the meeting,” the Republican told the newspaper. “I often call behind the wheel. Usually by telephone, but also via video calls. I don’t pay attention to the images, but just listen to what is being said.” An explanation that is rather unbelievable, given that Brenner kept fiddling with his phone during the meeting to get his virtual background right.