Cell Phone Use While Driving

Why should you think twice before using your cell phone while driving? "Studies show that driving while talking on a cell phone is extremely dangerous and puts drivers at a four times greater risk of a crash," said Janet Froetsher, president and CEO of the National Safety Council. Each year, it's estimated to cause:

• 636,000 crashes
• 330,000 injuries
• 12,000 major injuries
• 2,600 deaths
• $43 billion in damages

Know the Cell Phone Driving Laws in Your State

States and local jurisdictions are responding to the dangers with a variety of new laws. Cell phone use by novice drivers is restricted in many states. Some states have banned handheld cell phone use. Some states have banned texting. Learn which cell phone driving laws apply in your state.

When Talking Absolutely Can't Wait

• Always use a hands-free device.
• Pull over to make calls. Even hands-free talking can be distracting. So move safely out of traffic and make your call while parked.
• Keep your hands on the wheel and eyes on the road. Use voice-activated controls when talking is absolutely necessary.

Texting

There's no reason to sugarcoat it: Texting while driving is a BAD idea. A recent study from the Virginia Tech Transportation Institute (VTTI) shows that texting while driving makes you 23.2 times likelier to be involved in a crash or near crash. That's why many states have passed laws partially or completely banning texting while driving. More states are likely to follow. See which states have banned texting.