When is it illegal to use your mobile phone while driving?

Using a mobile phone while driving is illegal unless you are using a hands-free device because this regulation aims to minimize distractions that can lead to accidents. The primary concern is that manual handling of a phone can divert a driver's attention from the road, significantly increasing the risk of collisions. The law recognizes that hands-free systems can mitigate some of these risks, allowing drivers to maintain better focus on their driving while still being able to make necessary calls.

In contrast, using a mobile phone when stopped at a red light may still involve distractions that can lead to unsafe driving if a driver isn't paying full attention to the road and surrounding traffic. Driving within city limits does not automatically impose stricter rules regarding mobile phone use beyond state laws. Claiming that mobile phone use while driving is always allowed is incorrect, as many jurisdictions have laws in place specifically prohibiting this behavior to enhance road safety.