Oprah Winfrey Takes on Texting Drivers with “No Phone Zone” Campaign
February 9, 2010 - By Justin E. Gehrke
February 9, 2010 – On an episode of The Oprah Winfrey Show, which aired January 18, 2010, Oprah tackled the popular topic of the dangers of cell phone use while driving. The episode included testimonials from those affected by the dangerous practice, as well as video clips highlighting the very real danger that texting and talking while driving presents. Based on the massive response to the episode, it wasn’t long before the show launched an internet-based campaign, known as the “No Phone Zone”, to bring more attention to the issue.
As part of the campaign, a new section on Winfrey’s official website has been dedicated solely to raising awareness among drivers and providing very real demonstrations of the negative consequences. In addition to hosting PSA-oriented clips and a quiz testing driver’s knowledge of the dangers, Winfrey has also created an area where viewers can virtually sign their name to a No Phone Zone Pledge. As of the writing of this article, 108,538 website visitors had signed on for the campaign. After signing, visitors can share their own stories about how their lives have been affected by the problem or simply forward the pledge on to share with others.
It would be very easy at first glance to be cynical about the issue. “Winfrey has a driver, right? Of course, she doesn’t have to worry about being distracted in the backseat.” Alternatively, some might say, “What does this have to do with technology news?” The truth is, though, that texting and talking while driving has become increasingly common. Chances are 99.9% of drivers with cell phones have done it on at least one occasion. So, it is a very real problem that can have fatal consequences. With regard to the technological aspect, anyone who owns a smartphone knows that emails, text messages, phone calls, Tweets, and Facebook updates are distracting. If the tech community doesn’t want to see its beloved gadgets unfairly demonized, then its time to become part of the solution. So, Winfrey’s decision to put her influential name behind the campaign only serves to help everyone on the road.
Ultimately, to help the problem, one doesn’t have to sign Oprah’s pledge, tell their story, or forward it on to others. Just like a lumberjack wouldn’t try to use a chainsaw and text at the same time, drivers need to use a little common sense while behind the wheel. Put the cell phone down in the car and make the effort to not pick it up. The email, texts, and other messages will be a lot easier to read at home, than from a hospital bed or a jail cell.
