When are you allowed to use your phone while driving?

Using your phone while driving is allowed only when it is hands-free because this ensures that the driver maintains full control of the vehicle and can keep their attention on the road. Hands-free devices allow for communication without the need to hold the phone, thus reducing the likelihood of distractions that can lead to accidents.

In many states, including Ohio, laws are specifically designed to minimize distractions to enhance road safety. This hands-free requirement promotes responsible driving behavior, allowing drivers to stay focused on their surroundings while still being able to communicate if necessary.

The other responses suggest conditions under which phone use might be acceptable, but they do not align with best practices for safe driving. Using a phone at stop signs or while driving at a slow speed could still divide attention from the road, increasing potential risks. The notion of using the phone whenever necessary could lead to the misuse of that discretion, creating unsafe situations while driving.