Why is using my cellphone while I am driving more dangerous that talking to my passengers?

Both distractions are dangerous. However, talking on the phone is not the same as speaking to a person because a phone conversation requires heightened concentration. When talking on the phone, conversation participants can not see each other, causing them to pay closer attention to what each person is saying.

Concentrating on a phone call while driving means the driver’s mind is not engaged in the task of driving. When the driver’s mind is distracted by a phone conversation, accidents are more likely to happen. Studies indicate that distracted driving is known to be responsible for 25 percent of all collisions in Texas.