Why is using my cellphone while I am driving more dangerous that talking to my passengers?

Both distractions are dangerous. However, talking on the phone is not the same as speaking to a person because a phone conversation requires heightened concentration. When talking on the phone, conversation participants can not see each other causing them to pay closer attention to what each person is saying.

Concentrating on a phone call while driving means the driver’s mind is not engaged on the task of driving. When the driver’s mind is distracted on a phone conversation accidents are more likely to happen. Studies indicate that distracted driving is known to be responsible for 25 percent of all collisions in Texas.

Other Texting While Driving FAQs:

• Are school bus drivers allowed to talk or text on their cellphone while driving?
• I have seen truckers using cellphones while driving. They are only taking their eyes off the road for a fraction of a second. What is the harm in that?
• I see lots of people on the road texting while driving. Is it really that dangerous?
• If I can not text while driving, what about using hands-free technology?
• My employer says it is dangerous to use a cellphone while driving, but wants me to be more productive. I can only do that if I can make and take calls while I am on the road. Does it really make any difference if I make calls and text while driving?
• Why is using my cellphone while I am driving more dangerous that talking to my passengers?