What should you know about cell phone safety while driving?
Using your phone while driving can distract you, even when using hands-free features, according to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). A conversation can take your attention away from driving even when your hands stay on the wheel. Know the cell phone laws where you drive and set up safety features before you get behind the wheel.
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Key takeaways
Using a phone while driving is dangerous, even when using hands-free features
Most states restrict or prohibit phone use while driving
A distracted driving ticket could affect your auto insurance rate
How to reduce cell phone distractions while driving
Cell phone distractions can make it more difficult to focus on traffic and road conditions. Distracted driving can cause accidents and injuries, and a distracted driving ticket may increase your auto insurance rate. To avoid distractions from your cell phone while driving, use these safety tips and follow the cell phone laws where you drive.
Set up hands-free features before you drive
Set up voice-assisted dialing and other hands-free features before you drive so you don't need to handle your phone. Remember that hands-free calls can still distract you. Pull over if a call needs your full attention.
Avoid phone calls during hazardous driving conditions
End the call if you're driving in hazardous conditions such as snow, sleet, or rain, and when merging into heavy traffic. As a driver, your first responsibility is to pay attention to the road.
Avoid stressful conversations while driving
Stressful or emotional conversations can pull your attention from the road. Tell the person you're speaking with that you're driving and, if necessary, end the conversation if it becomes distracting.
Use your cell phone to call for help
If possible, pull over and dial 911 or another local emergency number to report emergencies such as a fire, traffic accident, road hazard, crime in progress, or another serious emergency.
For non-emergencies, pull over or wait until you arrive at your destination before calling roadside assistance.
How distracted driving can affect your auto insurance rate
If you get a ticket for texting or another form of distracted driving, your auto insurance rate may increase, depending on your state and insurer. Some states don't allow insurers to consider distracted driving tickets when setting your rate. In others, insurers may treat a ticket like any other minor moving violation and raise your rate at renewal. A distracted driving ticket issued following an accident may affect your rate for longer than a ticket alone.
Learn more about how distracted driving can affect your insurance rate.
For more information about cell phone safety and legislation, see the Legislative Tracking Database to follow your state's cell phone legislation and other current issues. Review the National Conference of State Legislatures to understand state laws for cell phone use while driving.
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