Cell phone etiquette

There's no question that cell phones are one of life's great conveniences. They've gone from shoebox-sized monsters that only government-types used, to phones only the rich and hip used, to something that just about everyone has.

Stuck in traffic and want to let someone know you're going to be late? Use your cell. Your car broke down and you need to call a tow truck? Use your cell. See something at the store your significant other has looked everywhere for and you need to find out what color they want it in? Use your cell. It's great to have that sort of power when you need it.

Note the word "power" though. And the phrase, "power corrupts." With cell phone companies competing with each other, prices are lower and lower.. and people are using their phones like a stereotypical teenage girl on a Friday night. In other words, people never get off their phones.

I've noticed because of this, there needs to be some kind of cell phone etiquette. Heck, even some general cell phone knowledge would be great.

As far as knowledge, here is a fact that many people don't seem to be aware of, or just don't seem to use: When your cell phone is off, calls generally go directly into voicemail. That's right! This means you don't have to keep your phone on at all hours of the day with the fear that you might miss a call! You can turn your phone off, and when you turn it on, there might be a message from your friend. And hey, armed with this knowledge, your friends will know that when they get voicemail immediately, you are otherwise indisposed! Wow!

Let's move into etiquette.

• When using a cell phone in a car, use a headset or radio device. You know why many states have a law against cell phone use in your car? Because idiots don't pay attention to the road while on the phone, that's why. I can't count the number of times I've almost been in a car accident, then observed the offending driver with one hand on the wheel, and their head dug into their neck talking on the phone. There are headsets and devices to talk/hear through your car radio people! Use them!
• Just because you have been indisposed for a few hours, doesn't mean you have to jump on your phone. It's like clockwork.. something ends/lets out and then out come the cell phones. As soon as coworkers get out the door at the office, out come the phones. I've seen people whip out their phones at the movies, literally as soon as the credits start rolling. Is there some need to be on the phone immediately? I mean, I understand if you have one of these parents/significant others that want to know where you are at all times, okay. But if not, well, I guess I don't understand. I'd like to though.
• For the sake of all things good and pure, DO NOT use your phone in the bathroom. By far this is the most disturbing trend I've seen. Men chatting on their cellphones while at the urinal, or, far, far worse.. while in the stall. I don't mean to be gross, but too often I hear something like, "Oh yeah, I've seen that *plop* ughh.... movie too. I liked it." I mean, good grief people!! Can you not wait 5 minutes to say what you need to say on the phone? Are you that pressed for time?! I wonder how the people on the other end of the line would react, knowing the person they are talking to is in the can. I've told friends and family members.. if I ever find that you are in the bathroom while I'm talking to you, hang up the phone, and don't EVER talk to me on that specific phone again. Might as well flush it.

Again, I'll say cell phones are great conveniences. And yes, they are yours to do with and use as you wish. Just, please, keep other people in mind when using your phone. You may be conveniencing yourself, but you may be inconveniencing someone else. I mean, cell phone conversations in the john?? EWWWWW!!!