This week the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) called for a nationwide ban on the use of cell phones and other electronic devices while driving. Spurred by a deadly crash in Missouri last year that killed two and injured 38 due to a driver's texting, the new law proposal would be the most aggressive effort yet and would go far beyond what any state currently prohibits. 

Although the NTSB's action is only recommendation, not implementation, the board has a strong track record of influencing many changes in support of transportation safety.  And they're backing up their recommendation with some astonishing statistics.  Their analysts estimate that at any given daylight moment, some 13.5 million drivers are using handheld devices, and that over 3,000 driving fatalities last year involved drivers distracted by handheld devices.

If the NTSB's recommendation is translated into action, this could mean a drastic lifestyle change for those accustomed to being technologically connected at all times, even behind the wheel.  The upside is, however,  that the laws would not apply to devices installed in the vehicle by the manufacturer. Features like General Motors' OnStar, Hyundai's Blue Link, and built-in Bluetooth and navigation screens would give drivers access to technology and convenience without breaking the proposed law.

And luckily there is no shortage of vehicles offering these features.  Most models on the Hyundai lineup, including the 2012 Hyundai Veloster, the 2012 Hyundai Sonata, and the 2012 Hyundai Tucson, offer Bluetooth hands-free calling and GPS navigation screens. Similarly, most GM vehicles, such as the 2012 Chevrolet Cruze, the 2012 Buick Lacrosse, and the 2012 GMC Acadia, come with OnStar Turn-By-Turn Navigation and Bluetooth capability.

While it's not quite certain whether the NTSB's nationwide ban on electronic devices will go into effect, it is reassuring to know that there are plenty of options out there for those who want to remain connected on the go.