When is it acceptable to use your phone while driving?

Using your phone only when employing hands-free options is acceptable while driving because it allows you to maintain focus on the road while still communicating. Hands-free technologies, such as Bluetooth devices or voice-activated systems, minimize physical distractions and help the driver keep both hands on the wheel and eyes on the road. This approach significantly decreases the chance of accidents that can occur due to divided attention when using a handheld device.

Waiting at a stop sign does not constitute an exception, as it can lead to distractions when the vehicle is in motion again. Driving in heavy traffic also requires full concentration, and using a phone, even hands-free, can still divert attention away from critical driving tasks. Finally, implying that it's acceptable to use a phone anytime as long as one is careful undermines the inherent risks of distracted driving, which can lead to serious accidents regardless of the perceived level of care. Thus, relying on hands-free options is a safer practice while driving.