Community Chat

[chessylady]

I just read that despite laws and fines, people are still driving while speaking on hand held phones and texting while driving. Do you think this is dangerous or not really a big deal. If you do it, why?

[151949]

Honestly, I don't see any difference between answering the phone and speaking to someone while your driving and having a conversation with the passengers who are in your car. However, texting is a whole different story altogether.

[pattypeep]

No, I do not do it and, yes, I think it is very dangerous. In my area I see people talking and obviously texting all of the time while driving. What really unnerves me is when someone is pulling out into traffic talking on a hand held phone and only using one hand on the steering wheel. Absolutely ridiculous.

[september]

I use hands free options for both phone calls and texting, when necessary. But even then...there might be only one time/week when I need to do this.

[WenGirl42]

There's no difference in the level of driver distraction between hand-held and hands-free. And it is different from having a conversation with a passenger, because the passenger is in and situationally aware of the same environment as the driver. That automatically modifies the conversation.

[Irshgrl31201]

Cars should start featuring a jamming capability that once the car is in drive, you cannot make or receive texts or calls. Many bars and restaurants in my area have this. They have something that jams calls and you cannot use your phone unless you walk outside.

I think this would be a great idea for car makers to do.

[sylviahomeatlast]

It's illegal here

[Irshgrl31201]

On 11/6/2014 WenGirl42 said: There's no difference in the level of driver distraction between hand-held and hands-free. And it is different from having a conversation with a passenger, because the passenger is in and situationally aware of the same environment as the driver. That automatically modifies the conversation.

Yes, you are correct. I just read a big study they just completed that states the same exact thing.

[sylviahomeatlast]

I have a bluetooth in my car, but it's still distracting to talk and drive

[Irshgrl31201]

On 11/6/2014 happy housewife said:

Honestly, I don't see any difference between answering the phone and speaking to someone while your driving and having a conversation with the passengers who are in your car. However, texting is a whole different story altogether.

THere is a difference according to several studies and this has led the NTSB to recommend all states ban ALL cell phone use, both hands free and hand held.