Sen. Mark Madsen, R-Lehi, has filed a bill that he says would allow Utahns to carry loaded firearms in vehicles. A concealed-carry permit would not be required.

The wording of Senate Bill 175 had not been filed as this was written, but Sen. Madsen says his intent is to allow residents to defend themselves by keeping a handgun at the ready in their vehicles.

The two sides of this argument are graphically illustrated in The Tribune's archives of past news stories. Carjackings do occur in the Beehive State, which may be one reason why someone would want to carry a loaded weapon in a car.

Of course, it might be safer not to resist a carjacker's demands. Giving up a car probably makes more sense than challenging another gunman to a shootout.

Carrying a loaded firearm around in a car entails other risks, too. If someone forgets about that loaded pistol stashed under the seat, it could fall into the hands of a child or someone else who doesn't understand how to handle it safely.

That happened a couple years ago in South Jordan. Two kids, one 14 years old, the other 12, were cleaning out a garage when they came across a loaded handgun stashed under the seat of a vehicle parked there. One of the kids was shot to death.

Studies have shown that even if children are taught not to touch firearms, guns are almost irresistible, especially to young boys.

Of course, if an adult decides that he must have a loaded firearm close at hand in case the need for self-defense arises, that person can get a concealed-carry permit. To do so, the applicant must undergo a criminal background check and attend a safety course. Given the risks and responsibilities involved with carrying a loaded firearm, these are minimal safety requirements.

Some gun owners argue that the good safety record compiled by concealed-carry permit holders over the 10 years that permits have been readily available in Utah argues for loosening the restrictions on anyone who wants to carry a loaded gun in a car.

But we believe that the good safety record so far proves the efficacy of the permitting process. Requiring the background check and safety course accounts for the lack of mishaps.

Then there's road rage. It would be a mistake to allow anyone, without a check of their criminal background, history of mental health problems and firearms training, to carry a loaded handgun around in a car. Especially given the number of people who lose their cool behind the wheel.