When are you allowed to use your mobile phone while driving?

Using a mobile phone while driving is regulated to enhance safety on the roads. The correct answer highlights that it is permissible to use a hands-free device. This is because hands-free devices allow drivers to maintain better control of the vehicle while still being able to communicate. By keeping both hands on the wheel and focusing on the road, drivers can reduce the risk of accidents that arise from distractions.

Legislation is in place in many jurisdictions, including Ontario, to discourage the use of handheld devices, as they require visual and manual attention, which can significantly impair a driver's ability to react to road conditions, traffic signals, and other drivers. Therefore, the use of a hands-free device strikes a balance between staying connected and ensuring road safety.

In contrast, using your phone while stopped at a red light can still be regarded as a distraction, as it takes focus away from driving and can lead to accidents if the light changes suddenly. The notion of using your phone whenever you want clashes with safe driving practices and regulations aimed at preventing distracted driving. Lastly, while pulling over to use your phone is a safe practice, the question specifies using mobile devices in the context of being hands-free while driving.