Use of Cellular Phone while driving
Full Question:
Answer:
Use of cellular phone while driving is generally not prohibited in Rhode Island. However, drivers younger than 18 and school bus drivers are specifically prohibited from using cell phone while driving. Sending or receiving text messages are not banned. If a minor is caught using a mobile communication device while driving, they will receive a fine of $50 for a first and second offense. If a minor is caught using a cellular device for a 3rd subsequent conviction, the fine will be $100 and they will have their drivers license suspended until they reach the age of 18.
Generally, talking on a mobile phone while driving cause a driver to be distracted and increases the chance of accidents. Because of this, many state and local governments have made it illegal to use a cell phone while driving.
There is a popular misconception that driving while using a hands-free device is safer than using a hand held cell phone. A study by the Transport Research Laboratory concluded that hands-free phone conversations impair driving performance more than other distractions such as passenger conversations.
The consistency of increased crash risk between hands-free and hand held cell phone use is at odds with legislation that prohibits hand held cell phone use but allows hands-free. In the United States, hands free use of a cell phone while driving is not prohibited in any state. Since dialing buttons on a cell phone is more distracting than talking on a cell phone, hands-free devices that offer voice-dialing may reduce the risk of accidents to a limited extent.
