Automobile Cell Phone Holders: Are They Safe?

Cell phones have become a major part of our day-to-day lives, but when a person is behind the wheel, it’s best for their phones to be kept on silent or set on “Do Not Disturb” mode so that drivers aren’t tempted to look at them while driving. Or, better yet, be kept someplace like a glove compartment or in a bag to avoid the temptation to look at their phones while driving. Because of the risks that come with distracted driving, most states have laws restricting the use of cell phones while driving.

But since many people use phone apps like Google Maps and Waze to get directions to their destinations, keeping a phone completely out of the way might not be an option. Because of this, cell phone mounts have become a popular way to get the information they need without having to keep reaching for their device and to generally minimize touching their phone while driving. But do cell phone mounts really make things safer?

First and foremost, it’s important to note that even hands-free ways of using a cell phone can still be very distracting when you’re trying to drive. Distracted driving includes anything that takes a person’s hands off the wheel or their eyes or attention away from the road. So even if you eliminate the dangers that come with physically reaching for a phone while driving, there might still be another type of distraction or other risks involved.

For example, windshield-mounted cell phone holders are one of the most common types of phone holders for cars because they’re easy to install and keep your phone at eye level. But while they can keep your phone within sight while driving, they can also potentially block your view of the road ahead of you. And finding a place for a windshield-mounted phone holder that won’t block your view can be tough sometimes, depending on the exact style of the holder and the angle of the windshield.

Cup holder phone mounts can also be an example of how a hands-free option doesn’t necessarily make phones less of a distraction behind the wheel. Since these types of phone holders are physically placed lower than other types of phone holders, that means drivers may need to take their eyes off the road to be able to check their directions.

Cell phone holders that attach to car vents have the benefit of making phones easy to see without blocking a driver’s view through the windshield. But if you’re planning to use a vent-mounted phone holder to make phone calls while driving, keep in mind that conversations can be a potential cause for distracted driving accidents since they can cause a driver to take their mind away from the road. If you think that having a conversation over a cell phone is no different than having a conversation with passengers in your car, remember that at least a passenger in your car can interrupt the conversation to warn you if they spot a hazard around you.

The effects of a car accident can be absolutely devastating, no matter what caused the crash. If you’ve been injured in a Michigan car accident, an experienced car accident lawyer can help you get all of the compensation you need while you recover. At Goodwin & Scieszka, we have decades of experience helping people who have been in your shoes and are ready to answer your questions and help you understand your legal options. Contact us today for help with your case.

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