Is It Safe to Use Hands Free Phone in a Car?

The Benefits of Hands-Free Phone Usage in Cars

Legal Compliance

In India, holding a mobile phone while driving is prohibited. However, as long as the driver does not physically hold the device, the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) permits the use of hands-free phone device car systems. This includes:

• Headsets with Bluetooth capabilities

• Voice-activated controls

• Infotainment systems in cars

Drivers can prevent fines and guarantee compliance with traffic laws by following these rules.

 

Convenience and Connectivity

For many professionals and people, staying connected while commuting is important. Drivers who use hands-free phone systems can:

• Respond to urgent work-related calls

• Coordinate with family members

• Get real-time traffic information and navigation guidance

With this seamless interaction, drivers can remain informed and accessible without sacrificing their safety.

 

Technological Advancements

The goal of modern road safety technologies is to reduce distractions. Among the popular features are:

• Voice-activated assistants, such as Google Assistant and Siri

• Control buttons mounted on the steering wheel

• Integrated displays on the dashboard 

By minimising manual interactions, these improvements hope to free up drivers' attention to focus on the road.

 

The risks of using hands-free phones

Cognitive distraction reduces focus

Using a hands-free phone might keep your hands on the wheel, but your mind is still divided. Holding a conversation — even via Bluetooth or a car's voice system — engages your cognitive attention. Distractions like these impair judgement, slow down reaction times, and make mistakes more likely.

 

A false sense of security

Most people assume that if they use systems with hands-free phones, they are 100% safe. Having their hands free gives them a sense of control. This presumption, however, can be harmful. The problem is not where your hands are, but rather where your focus is.

 

Even if you're not holding a phone in your hands, talking on the phone while driving on a highway or overtaking another car could potentially put you in trouble.

 

Phone use contributes to road accidents

The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) reports that 1.6% of all traffic accidents and fatalities on National Highways in 2022 were caused by cellphone use.This statistic illustrates how dangerous mobile-related distractions, even those that are legal, are on Indian highways.

 

Even if it’s hands-free, using phone while driving increases exposure to risk — especially in fast-moving or congested environments like expressways and city junctions.

 

Safer Alternatives to Using Hands-Free Phones

Adopting No-Call Policies

Implementing a "no-call while driving" policy can significantly reduce car driving risks. You can:

• Set voicemail for calls.

• Before answering calls, pull over safely.

• Notify people about your driving schedules.
   

Such actions promote a responsible and safe culture.

 

Leveraging Automation

Distraction-reducing features are available on modern smartphones:;

• Do Not Disturb While Driving: Silences alerts and delivers auto-replies automatically.

• Driving Mode: Adjusts settings to reduce disruptions.

By using these road safety technology features, drivers can mitigate potential hazards and stay focused.

 

The Road Ahead

The data is clear: mobile phone use, including hands-free, contributed to 1.6% of all road accidents and fatalities on India’s National Highways in 2022. That’s not a small number when you consider the scale of traffic across the country.

 

The safest choice? Keep calls for when you're parked. Use automation tools. Limit distractions.

 

Just as important, protect yourself from the financial impact of accidents. A solid car insurance plan ensures that even if something goes wrong, you’re covered.

 

That’s where Shriram Car Insurance comes in. With:

• Fast, hassle-free claim settlements

• Reliable customer support

• Flexible policy options for Indian driving needs

• Multiple add-ons, including Roadside Assistance, for comprehensive protection

• An extensive network of cashless garages.
   

Shriram Car Insurance helps you stay prepared for the unexpected — because road safety isn’t just about how you drive, but also how well you’re protected.;

 

Explore your options today.

 

FAQs

1. Is using a hands-free phone while driving legal in India?

Yes, as long as the driver doesn't physically handle the device and uses an approved hands-free phone device car system.

2. Does hands-free usage eliminate all distractions?

No. While it removes manual distractions, cognitive distractions remain, which can impair driving performance.

3. Can phone usage while driving affect car insurance claims?

Yes. If an accident occurs due to driver distraction, insurance companies may consider this while processing claims.

4. What are safer alternatives to using hands-free phones?

Adopting no-call policies and leveraging road safety technology features like "Do Not Disturb While Driving" can enhance safety.