cell-talking cager gets arm removed during crash

[DigitalQuirk]

Yeah, she could have been text messaging...
:rolleyes:

Or maybe some zealot in their Prius, seeing their "Enemy" cell-phone-talker-in-an-SUV, went blind with rage, swerved into her lane and threatening to hit her, causing her to react by steering away and therefore skidding out of control.

[genec]

Sad, really. Especially when we don't know the full story; people assume it must be the fact that she was using a cell phone and driving at the same time, only because it fits their dogma.

Well at any rate, she was apparently clutching at the time of the accident as the news report says the phone was still in the hand... so certainly she was doing something with it. No assumption required.

[KrisPistofferson]

Or maybe some zealot in their Prius, seeing their "Enemy" cell-phone-talker-in-an-SUV, went blind with rage, swerved into her lane and threatening to hit her, causing her to react by steering away and therefore skidding out of control.Are you a "Creation Scientist?" You seem to want to complicate a fairly simple set of events with incredibly wild speculation. Your obtuseness is noted, I just don't agree with you.

[soda]

I use a cell phone while driving.

[DigitalQuirk]

Are you a "Creation Scientist?" You seem to want to complicate a fairly simple set of events with incredibly wild speculation. Your obtuseness is noted, I just don't agree with you.

I find the term "Creation Scientist" to be a contradiction of terms (along the lines of "Military Intelligence"). The answer is no; now may I ask you, are you a fecalfeliac?

Most of what I've been reading here has been "Wild Speculation." My speculation just happens to be a bit wilder, just for fun. ;)

[catatonic]

Yeah, I got a pretty good chastising on this, now time for my take on it:

A car is a piece of heavy machinery, and one of the fastest forms of heavy machinery.

Like all machinery, the user of this machinery should be operating it in a safe and responsible manner.

There is a fun thing about power steering....it's too easy to oversteer, especially when only using one hand to control it. This is the reason why the "two hands on the wheel" rule taught since Driver's ed was advocated so much. In this case, only having one hand capable of fully gripping the wheel more than likely contributed to the accident.

If I knew the stretch of road, and how the thing suddenly shot into a median...I might be able to say more....however we have seen neglect of safety, and possibly very bad driving skills.

I know we all have our driving snafus....but with a child in the car? You would htink she would be doing her best for the safety of her child, would you not?

Really, unless there was some kind of chase (which again is bad form if she doesn't know how to drive fast safely...in which case it would actually endager them even more so), then there really was no excuse.

Cell phones are a convenience, and if operating a machine is involved, that machine should take precidence over conveniences. I should know, thanks to both hands on the wheel, and giving the road my full attention, I have avoided some outright ugly situations.

Yes, it may be wrong of me for starting this thread, or at the least wording it as badly as I did, but I still stand behind the concept of "a place and time for everything". In this case, it seemed to be the right time for that extra hand on the wheel...maybe she could have gotten the vehicle under control that way....maybe not...but at least she would have known that she gave it her 100%.

[77Univega]

http://www.wlextv.com/Global/story.asp?S=4449021 --- The news item says:
"Her arm was found near the accident still clutching a cell phone."
I do believe this poor woman suffered a traumatic amputation, but I do not believe the cell phone could still have remained clutched in the hand. An URBAN LEGEND in the making.

[KrisPistofferson]

I use a cell phone while driving.I commute by bicycle. You win, bro. :beer:

[sbhikes]

So I heard about this guy watching TV on his barcalounger when a meteor comes crashing through the roof. After the dust cleared, they found his severed arm still clutching the remote control...

[khuon]

So I heard about this guy watching TV on his barcalounger when a meteor comes crashing through the roof. After the dust cleared, they found his severed arm still clutching the remote control...

If the Star Wars movies have taught us anything it's that a severed hand will remain clutching whatever it was holding prior to being cut off. ;)

[KrisPistofferson]

So, some mischevious kids came upon a severed arm, and decided to put a cellie in it's hand as a joke?
http://www.filmposters.com/images/posters/7917.jpg

[soda]

I commute by bike also. I'll answer the phone too if I can make it a quick call.

[royalflash]

If the Star Wars movies have taught us anything it's that a severed hand will remain clutching whatever it was holding prior to being cut off. ;)
:beer: :roflmao: :roflmao: :roflmao:

[scarry]

Stupid cager. Get off the damn phone and drive.

[dobber]

Stupid cager. Get off the damn phone and drive.


Close the thread, Scarry has once again solved the problem.

Good going Scarry !!

[scarry]

What are you saying? That there are no valid criticisms of cars, and car use in our society?
Anyone who dares criticize cars is an anti-car fanatic?

Get your head out of the sand and smell the exhaust. It's not just cyclists who are concerned about this subject.

Equally true when the poster uses the term "cager" in the body of the message. Guaranteed to be an anti-car drivel meister posing as a bicycling advocate.

[slagjumper]

I am a bit surprised that none of the BF photo-artists have photo-shopped the severed arm, lying in the roadway, clenching a cell phone. This image would definitely be worth a thousand words.

[Blue Order]

So I heard about this guy watching TV on his barcalounger when a meteor comes crashing through the roof. After the dust cleared, they found his severed arm still clutching the remote control...You and your boyfriend are apparently incapable of distinguishing between news reported by a news organization and an urban myth relayed to you over drinks by a friend who knows somebody who knows somebody. Pity. The difference is obvious.

[sbhikes]

Yes, the difference is obvious. But so is the similiarity, no?

[Blue Order]

Yes, I'll agree with you that the severed arm clutching a cell phone sounds just like an urban myth. It just seemed from your previous posts that you actually believed this was an urban myth.

If this were a scene in a movie, or an urban myth, I'd find it amusing. Given the circumstances, it's just sad.

[mrkott3r]

just another reason to get the hell out of the way when you see a suv/4wd coming, you dont know where they are gonna go

[khuon]

just another reason to get the hell out of the way when you see a suv/4wd coming, you dont know where they are gonna go

This is not exclusive to SUVs/4WD. One could make the same argument for any vehicle... including bikes. And many a pedestrian as well as motorists have.

[KrisPistofferson]

I am a bit surprised that none of the BF photo-artists have photo-shopped the severed arm, lying in the roadway, clenching a cell phone. This image would definitely be worth a thousand words.
We should make this thread a photoshop competition! :beer:
http://www.fbtb.net/customs/galleries/BrothersBourgeois/BrothersBourgeois13.jpg

[prendrefeu]

I read some of the responses in this thread, and I am reminded of the media reports of some Palestinians and Egyptians dancing and celebrating in the streets after the planes took down the World Trade Centers in New York. I suppose zealots are all the same in that their cause comes before people, and they wait for opportunities like this to validate their beliefs. They (the zealots) have made this woman their enemy without actually knowing the person. Sad, really.


Woa, woa.... Wait a minute. Not to put this into too much of a political discussion, because there are other places for that, but I read every single entry in this entire thread and, DigitalQuirk, I read your reply about 4 times so far. Each time, I keep thinking "What?!". I don't know you, and I won't make any assumptions about you - but have you traveled? Have you lived outside of the United States? Or, let me be more to the point: do you have any experiences of living in a country that is being manipulated by the United States?
When 9/11 happened I was in shock like most other people in this country, and I felt sorry for those that were lost in the WTC/flights and the other flight of that day but when I saw the cliché response that the US news media threw up on the screens of "zealots" dancing in the streets, I also knew exactly why they were so elated and could very clearly see their side of the issue at hand. I also realize (as I hope you do, too, DigitalQuirk) that what the US news media or most media around the world put up for the public is a cliché answer to further propogate a stance. It's like only interviewing the 'nutcases' and 'conspiracy theorists' at an Anti-War protest when those people do not represent the others who are protesting along side them. How would you feel if the representation of bicyclists in the news media that was spread across the AP network feeds was of a homeless guy riding in a thong on a rusty old huffy while screaming about how people in cars are going to hell? Ah, so the 'zealot' vehicle drivers get their cliché candy, too.

My point is that by claiming some people to be 'zealots' and making a comparison to the incidences of '9/11' you are perpetuating the same lack of perspective and understanding that your 'zealots' are doing. We all need to take into account all sides of a story AND all PERSPECTIVES of a story. Some people will always find something funny, some people will find the same thing shocking and tragic. It's the dynamics of life. Understand them and accept them for what they are. The more enlightened you become to it's hypocracies, the more you'll be able to laugh at anything while simultaneously having loving kindness, sympathy and compassion.

As a driver, I found the story tragic and as a cyclist I found the story ironic, like some "poetic" action that would occur in the closing credits of a Monty Python's Flying Circus episode. It's a dry and quick humor that is understood when one recognizes the screwed up nature of life and how hypocritical, strange, and dynamic this life is. All my practices of Buddhism did not prevent me from sighing out with a little "Ah, a lesson learned the hard way" and a slight laugh. Heck, I can guarantee that the most enlightened of teachers and gurus would even recognize the irony... Some would even give a chortle.

[ReptilesBlade]

I feel bad for the child.

Koffee

Took the words right out of my mouth. However you have to wonder how traumatized the child might be after this. The poor kid will probably be in therapy for years. Plus loosing an arm is a hefty price for stupidity; though the woman is lucky she did not kill herself and her kid. Imagine the poor father/husband.

[baiskeli]

Woa, woa.... Wait a minute. Not to put this into too much of a political discussion, because there are other places for that, but I read every single entry in this entire thread and, DigitalQuirk, I read your reply about 4 times so far. Each time, I keep thinking "What?!". I don't know you, and I won't make any assumptions about you - but have you traveled? Have you lived outside of the United States? Or, let me be more to the point: do you have any experiences of living in a country that is being manipulated by the United States?
When 9/11 happened I was in shock like most other people in this country, and I felt sorry for those that were lost in the WTC/flights and the other flight of that day but when I saw the cliché response that the US news media threw up on the screens of "zealots" dancing in the streets, I also knew exactly why they were so elated and could very clearly see their side of the issue at hand. I also realize (as I hope you do, too, DigitalQuirk) that what the US news media or most media around the world put up for the public is a cliché answer to further propogate a stance. It's like only interviewing the 'nutcases' and 'conspiracy theorists' at an Anti-War protest when those people do not represent the others who are protesting along side them. How would you feel if the representation of bicyclists in the news media that was spread across the AP network feeds was of a homeless guy riding in a thong on a rusty old huffy while screaming about how people in cars are going to hell? Ah, so the 'zealot' vehicle drivers get their cliché candy, too.

My point is that by claiming some people to be 'zealots' and making a comparison to the incidences of '9/11' you are perpetuating the same lack of perspective and understanding that your 'zealots' are doing. We all need to take into account all sides of a story AND all PERSPECTIVES of a story. Some people will always find something funny, some people will find the same thing shocking and tragic. It's the dynamics of life. Understand them and accept them for what they are. The more enlightened you become to it's hypocracies, the more you'll be able to laugh at anything while simultaneously having loving kindness, sympathy and compassion.

As a driver, I found the story tragic and as a cyclist I found the story ironic, like some "poetic" action that would occur in the closing credits of a Monty Python's Flying Circus episode. It's a dry and quick humor that is understood when one recognizes the screwed up nature of life and how hypocritical, strange, and dynamic this life is. All my practices of Buddhism did not prevent me from sighing out with a little "Ah, a lesson learned the hard way" and a slight laugh. Heck, I can guarantee that the most enlightened of teachers and gurus would even recognize the irony... Some would even give a chortle.
+100

Very eloquent

I too read DigitalQuirk's response and thought WTF!

[ivan_yulaev]

As tasteless as it is...

CELL PHOWNED!

The little girl, however, will never drive with a cell phone again. Although maybe that's a good thing.

[remsav]

--- The news item says:
"Her arm was found near the accident still clutching a cell phone."
I do believe this poor woman suffered a traumatic amputation, but I do not believe the cell phone could still have remained clutched in the hand. An URBAN LEGEND in the making.

This sounds like a job for the Myth Busters, they actually confirmed driving while talking on cell-phone was as bad as being intoxicated at least for Kari and Adam on a driving course. Another one I like to see is biking with ipod at ??? decible.

[lxpatterson]

I commute by bike also. I'll answer the phone too if I can make it a quick call.

i get yelled at in a race for taking both hands off to eat food, and that's in a peleton of cyclists.

[KrisPistofferson]

Less BS talk! More photoshop!

[rvabiker]

Mythbusters is BS...

[onyourbike]

I have a land line telephone at home and a direct line at work. I don't really need a cellphone. Many people have them but don't really need them. It is a sad accident though.

[KrisPistofferson]

http://www.chemicalwarfare.net/~apratt/images/walrusphone.jpg
LOL

[Oxymoron]

I still find it funny. Or rather, after I cringed, I laughed.

However,
What I see in this story is an innocent child that suffered a horribly traumatic incident and won't be able to get a comforting hug from mum like she used to.
Cyclaholic, you're sick! The imagery...

[snowgukonwheels]

I will remember your comment the next time I am discussing highly technical processes with my manager via a cell phone.
As for SUV equating to what you said, to each his\her own. This vehicle type has its use. Personally, I will stick to our family car, a camry.



Umm, I forgot to mention I.Q. loss only occurs when driving and celling. Not intended to be construed as a general statement...

[snowgukonwheels]

Hold on mister. You took my generalized response to a general statement by another poster way out of context. In no way shape or form do I endorse using a cell phone while driving to discuss intricate matters. I OCCASIONALLY use a cell while rarely driving (I cycle about 98% of the time) for minor life issues. Ex: please pick up bread, I'm going to be late. Stuck in traffic, etc
A generalized statement that cell phones diminish an IQ is a load. Now if it had been stated while driving it diminshes your ability to concentrate, my answer would have been different.

As for risks cyclists take not ever endangering people, that is incorrect IMHO. On multiple occasions I have been witness to roadies coming very close to injuring peds. Rarely they actually suceed. True, it is nothing compared to what motorists on cells have done to cyclists. However, to state that cyclists are fully attentive and do not risk anyone else is incorrect IMHO.

Um, sorry for the confusion - i really did mean I.Q. Loss occurs only when in vehicle with cell in hand.

[elgalad]

bumpdizzle

[twahl]

bumpdizzle

dipsnizzle.

[fordfasterr]

holy jeebus.

[littlewaywelt]

cell phones and car use may not be ideal, but seriously, chuckles and a lack of sympathy? The person made a mistake and lost an arm. How would you feel if it was your wife, husband, mother or father.

[Hickeydog]

cell phones and car use may not be ideal, but seriously, chuckles and a lack of sympathy? The person made a mistake and lost an arm. How would you feel if it was your wife, husband, mother or father.

To me and my heartless mind, I would still think "they were doing something stupid and they paid for it. I hope they learn from their mistakes."
Seriously, I hope that this is a lesson to all cellphone-talking-drivers. You have more chance of crashing when talking on a cell phone than you do driving drunk. I don't own a cell phone. If someone needs to get a hold of me, Email is the fastest and best way. Calling home would be second best.

[aMull]

+2. I thought it must be hard to point fingers and laugh at other's pain while simultaneously polishing your own halo, and basking in self rightousness; but obviously not so for some "advocates" posting of their glee at the "cager's" misfortune.
What's so bad about laughing at some idiot's mistakes? She was playing with a toy while operating a vehicle, and got her harm cut off in the process. I find it funny don't you?

[dobber]

What's so bad about laughing at some idiot's mistakes? She was playing with a toy while operating a vehicle, and got her harm cut off in the process. I find it funny don't you?

I find your lack of intelligence, as exemplified by your inability to spell the word "arm" correctly, quite humorous.

[filtersweep]

Her arm was found near the accident still clutching a cell phone.

That is awesome! You think someone might drop the phone to grab the wheel---- I guess it shows how misplaced priorities can be.

[aMull]

I find your lack of intelligence, as exemplified by your inability to spell the word "arm" correctly, quite humorous.
Was a typo. Thanks for the insult though.

[ChipSeal]

Headsets and hands-free rigs seem to help, but only somewhat. At least headset users are better able to turn their heads and look around.

I need to get one of those "hands-free" rigs.

I don't have a phone.

I just need it so people won't look at me so funny when I am talking to myself.;)

[Carusoswi]

I get really tired of the rant against cell phone use while driving . . . and the suggestions to treat it like a DUI is really taking it too far. I wouldn't make fun of anyone who lost a limb, no matter how it happened or who was at fault.

Everyone should stop focusing on the cell phone as the cause of this accident and start focusing on the driver's lack of attention and, more importantly, skill in handling the vehicle.

We don't know what sort of truck/suv she was driving, but there is a technique in recovering from what a car naturally tends to do when it drifts off the pavement onto the grass or gravel portions of the median. The accidental sequence of events may have started when she allowed the vehicle to drift off the median, but the outcome was made more severe by her lack of recovery skill.

I venture to say there is absolutely no training given in driver education classes on how to recover from skids and such.

I talk on my phone while driving, and I am neither inattentive nor unsafe. If an emergency situation occurred, I would drop the phone in an instant.

No one is going to make me stop driving, and, thankfully, unless some of the over-hyped hyperbolytes have there way, cell phone use while driving will never be codified on a par with DUI.

Caruso

[Mos6502]

Everyone should stop focusing on the cell phone as the cause of this accident and start focusing on the driver's lack of attention* and, more importantly, skill in handling the vehicle.**

*lack of attention due to it being directed towards the cell phone

**lack of skill in handling the vehicle because she was only using one hand to steer, because the other one was holding the cell phone.

Arguably, the same accident could have occurred had she been eating a hamburger, but in this instance it was a cell phone. It's dangerous and stupid to talk on the phone and drive at the same time. Period. Maybe not on the same level as driving drunk, since you can get off the phone at any time, and you can't magically become sober when you want to - but still, it is stupid.

If she hadn't been wearing a seatbelt and had died, then I think we could rightfully say that it was rather stupid of her not to be wearing a seatbelt. Not that I'd laugh at her or make light of it, but it's true. She was doing something not in her best interests and it got her.

Which reminds me, yesterday I was going to put air in my car's tires at the gas station and some guy in his SUV was parked right in front of the air pump. First I was annoyed, but then I saw he was on his cell phone, and secondly after I parked he asked if I could still reach my car with the hose and I could. Now that's a motorist who is on top of things - pulled over to talk instead of trying to talk and drive, and aware enough and friendly enough to other people as to actually get out and make sure I could still get air...

[red house]

This is not advocacy. This is ugly. Shame on you all.


''Her arm was found near the accident still clutching a cell phone.'' :eek:! :lol:



No.. this is funny, hilarious even. (And, tragically ironical I might add). :) :beer:

[catatonic]

I venture to say there is absolutely no training given in driver education classes on how to recover from skids and such.

True, here in the states, driver's education has a whole 30 seconds dedicated to this. In my opinion it should be a major section of the class.


I talk on my phone while driving, and I am neither inattentive nor unsafe. If an emergency situation occurred, I would drop the phone in an instant.


Not trying to argue, but many people fail to see the iherent risk in their behavior until after something happens. Hopefully it's an "oh shoot" moment (like a speeder may have when a car jumps out in front of them) and not something worse.


No one is going to make me stop driving, and, thankfully, unless some of the over-hyped hyperbolytes have there way, cell phone use while driving will never be codified on a par with DUI.


Of course cell phone vs DUI is a bit extreme. Of course both cases have the same outcome, a driver not at their full attention while controlling their vehicle. This is true of those that try to eat, do makeup, watch porno (yes, this one has happened before), do paperwork, etc while driving. I won't even look at a map while driving....it takes too many seconds with the eyes away from the road.