Although there are clear benefits in having mobile phones available in vehicles, there are also potential disbenefits from a safety viewpoint. These have been demonstrated in laboratory situations, in simulators and the road environment. Epidemiological studies also suggest that distraction effects while using a phone can contribute to accidents. The potential benefits of having a phone available in a vehicle, e.g. summoning assistance in the event of a breakdown or alerting emergency services to an incident, must be weighted against the potential risks from a driver using a phone, either hand-held or hands-free, when controlling the vehicle. This paper provides an overview and summary of current GB policy on the use of mobile phones when driving. (Author/publisher).
Abstract