When is it illegal to use a cell phone while driving a passenger vehicle?

Using a cell phone while driving a passenger vehicle is illegal when driving without a hands-free device due to regulations intended to reduce distractions and enhance safety on the road. Texas laws specifically prohibit the use of handheld devices while operating a vehicle in many circumstances, emphasizing the dangers posed by manual distraction.

The rationale behind this regulation is that using a handheld phone requires both hands, which distracts the driver from focusing on the road, increasing the likelihood of accidents. In contrast, utilizing a hands-free device allows the driver to maintain better control of the vehicle while still being able to communicate. Therefore, the prohibition on handheld use directly contributes to safer driving practices and helps in preventing collisions caused by distracted driving.