Apparently a crash in Los Angeles last week between a commuter train and a freight train was preceded by the engineer exchanging text messages.

According to reports, cell phone records are being examined to see if texting did play a part. Unfortunately, the engineer's eyes may have been on the texts rather than the tracks.

This is one case where technology can be a hindrance rather than a help.

We're all tempted to check a text or see who's calling while driving, or even texting or talking while crossing a busy intersection.

Let's hope this is not a trend that grows.

(Photo credit: Reuters)