The NTSB wants you to shut up and drive‎

The NTSB urged a cell phone ban for drivers Tuesday. But some states only have minimal rules on electronic devices in cars, and debate continues over safety of hands-free talking.

The federal agency responsible for highway safety has thrown down a challenge to states: Tighten your laws on electronic devices in the car, or more accidents will happen.

The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) can't dictate policies all by itself, but on Tuesday its five members issued a unanimous recommendation that talking, texting, or checking e-mail while driving should be banned everywhere in the United States.

This appeal for safety comes as the American public has been growing increasingly accustomed to using their gadgets almost anytime, anyplace – on airplanes, in movie theaters, even in their sleep. And, yes, while rolling down roads in cars and trucks.