[Obi-Wandreas]

Unfortunately, various studies done on this have found no measurable difference in distraction level between cell phone users with or without the hands-free unit. The distraction lies in carrying on a conversation with someone who is outside of your situation, thus reducing your situational awareness - not in actually holding the phone itself.

Most laws which ban the use of cell phones specifically exempt those with hands-free units, even though, from what I have read, it's just as dangerous.

[al_c]

I’d have to disagree with that. I refuse to use my cell phone while driving if I have to hold it to my ear. But with the bluetooth going, it’s really not an issue (although I rarely do this either). It’s no different than talking to someone in the passenger seat. The main thing is to just pay attention to what the heck is going on around you ... the conversation is not as important.

[longtermmemmory]

I have also seen studies which state changing the radio dial is just as dangerous as talking on a cell phone.

The issue is educating people about DISTRACTED driving.

Otherwise we might as well outlaw EVERYTHING in cars. No radio, no cup holders, no talking to the driver, no eating, no chewing gum, no singing, and under no circumstances is smiling or happy thoughts to be allowed.

How about those idiot agressive drives too? The ones that do not wait in line to make a left turn but tear around everone and cut into the front of the intersection in order to make their turn without waiting.

We can outlaw to minimal effect.
We can educate to more effect.
But cand can’t legistlate away or educate away stupid.

[Ditto]

Most laws which ban the use of cell phones specifically exempt those with hands-free units, even though, from what I have read, it's just as dangerous.

I agree. It's the mental distraction, not the physical.