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From ST Forum: http://www.straitstimes.com/STForum/Story/...ory_773082.html Ban vehicle accessories that distract drivers Published on Mar 3, 2012 I AM appalled that the Land Transport Authority (LTA) allows in-car video entertainment systems on the dashboard ('Glitzy video gadgets a distraction for drivers'; Feb 22). I am not against the use of in- vehicle entertainment devices, per se. Audio players can entertain drivers and help keep them alert. GPS devices also aid drivers in unknown territory. And having portable video players can help calm hyperactive children when travelling. However, it is ridiculous to allow drivers to install video-playing devices in the driver's view. It is already dangerous when drivers talk on their mobile phones; and it will be more so if they take their eyes off the road to watch a video. While multi-tasking is a time- saving skill in the workplace, it is a potentially deadly habit on the road. If drivers do not concentrate on driving, they will be blind to dangers. Such errant drivers must be kept off the road, for the safety of other road users, through a mandatory jail term and driving ban. In addition, insurers should treat the installation of such entertainment devices, in positions that might compromise safety, as illegal modifications, and decline insurance. The authorities should confiscate such vehicles when they are caught on the road. Tan Hong Chan

Nov 17, 2010 ASIAN GAMES IN GUANGZHOU GUANGZHOU - BIKINI-WEARING Asian Games beach volleyball cheer squads are proving too hot for some competitors who claim the scantily-clad dancers make it impossible to concentrate. 'They had an effect on how we played,' Yemen beach volleyballer Adeeb Mahfoudh told the Tianfu Morning News on Wednesday. 'I think they had something to do with our losing the match.' The Yemeni men's team lost their Tuesday clash to an apparently more focused team from Indonesia, the paper said. Organisers of the Guangzhou Asian Games have hired four cheerleader squads, each made up of eight girls in swimsuits, to entertain fans during breaks in the beach volleyball action, said the newspaper. Besides cheering on the already capacity crowds, the girls also perform routines that include traditional Chinese elements including martial arts and fan dancing. 'These girls are very beautiful. With them here, more people will pay attention to beach volleyball,' smiled Mahfoudh. -- AFP http://sports.163.com/10/1111/16/6L7JSFNP00051CAQ_3.html http://bbs.hoopchina.com/simple/1696445.html