When is it legal to use a cell phone while driving?

Using a cell phone while driving is legal only when utilizing hands-free devices due to safety regulations designed to reduce distractions on the road. Hands-free devices allow a driver to maintain control of the vehicle while still being able to communicate. This approach minimizes the risk of accidents that can occur when a driver physically holds a phone, leading to reduced attention to the road.

In contrast, using a cell phone freely or when stopped at a traffic light can distract a driver, potentially leading to unsafe driving conditions. While some might think that operating a phone at a stoplight is safe, it can still lead to inattentiveness as the driver is not fully focused on their surroundings. Additionally, while rural roads might seem less busy and therefore safer for phone usage, distractions can still pose significant dangers regardless of the driving environment.