Dear Man in the White Volkswagen,

I am sure you and I are both aware that the law prohibiting the use of handheld devices while driving was created largely in response to the prevalence of cellular phone use (and the accompanying habit of texting) by drivers.  You and I are both aware, also, that you were not speaking on a cellular phone, nor were you texting or using the internet, when I passed you on the highway.

I do believe, however, that the spirit of the law -- aiming to make drivers less distracted and therefore safer -- would extend to the handheld devices that you were making rather extensive use of while you drove:  a steno pad and a pen.  Sure, you may have been kicking it old-school, but writing a rather extensive memo to yourself (or, perhaps to someone else) would likely fall under the category of distracted driving nonetheless.

Perhaps you might consider paying a bit more attention to the road and either invest in a voice recorder or write your novel in the safety of your home.

Sincerely,

Me