It is the opinion of the author that “Baby on Board” signs are not the most sensible innovative event in the history of motoring. Before the “BOB” brigade start raising their voices in protest let us look at the reasons for making this statement in more depth. The first objection to these signs is based simply upon driving proficiency. We all, as drivers, are taught how to deal with traffic that is in front of us on the roads in a safe manner that will not endanger its occupants, us or any other road user. In theory therefore we should all be driving in a manner that ensures the safety of all vehicle passengers, irrespective of age, thus automatically encouraging us to maintain a safe distance between our vehicle and the one in front. The second objection is centred on the issue of design. In the initial stages of the introduction of these signs they were simply word messages that contained the words “Baby on Board” usually in black and set against a fluorescent background. However, as with all automobile message adornments of this nature, over time that have evolved into more exotic designs, which include graphics, many of which are cartoon in nature. This development can present a distraction for drivers of following vehicles. Indeed, rather than encourage following vehicles to maintain an adequate distance, these picturesque signs can encourage the opposite as drivers close the gap to get a better look at the designs. Furthermore, the signs might also be a distraction to the driver of the vehicle displaying them, particularly in terms of obstructing their vision through the rear window of the vehicle. This in itself can create a potential hazard that can lead to accidents. Thirdly, there is the issue of usage. It there is an informational sign of this nature being portrayed in the rear window of an automobile one would naturally expect it to be true. However, it is staggering the number of times one can come across a vehicle displaying a “BOB” sign when, apart from the driver there is no other occupant and certainly not a baby. If one is going to display signs of this nature therefore, they should be factually correct, in other words removed when the infant referred to is not a passenger in the vehicle. Finally one has to consider the issue of precedent. One of the problems with signs of this nature is that they do have a habit of spawning a whole generation of mimicry, some of which might be relevant and factual whilst others might have a more serious nature. For example, some might argue that if baby a on board sign is acceptable then surely a sign indicating that there are elderly relatives on board or that the car is being driven by a person with a certain IQ level would be equally valid. The problem is how and where to stop this proliferation of signage growth on private vehicles. Therefore, although the intention of the baby on board signs might be valid, it is considered that because of their distractive nature and the fact that they encourage other copycat messages, they can in reality do more harm than good in terms of improving road safety. Category:Home › Autos • Will the trend toward economy-size car models lead Americans back to buying smaller-sized cars? — part 2 • You should never use after-market auto parts when maintaining or fixing your car • Should a new car be rust-proofed? • Will the trend toward economy-size car models lead Americans back to buying smaller-sized cars? — part 1 • Five safest cars in North America • How to ensure your teen drives safely after getting a license • Pros and cons of using an hydrogen generator for your car • DIY automotive maintenance: How to change the oil