Health Tip: Cell Phone Safety

(HealthDay News) - Cell phone use is a common cause of accidents while driving. In some states, it's illegal for a driver to use a cell phone without a hands-free device.

The University of Texas at San Antonio Police Department offers these safety suggestions to help reduce accidents caused by cell phone use:

• Use a hands-free accessory whenever possible.

• Don't risk an accident trying to reach your phone. Store it in an accessible place, but don't answer it if you can't reach for it safely.

• Memorize your keypad, speed dial and other functions so that you can pay attention to the road while using your phone.

• Don't talk on your phone while driving through construction zones, heavy traffic, bad weather or other situations that require your full attention.

• Plan your calls around your trip. Call once you're safely in your lane on the interstate, rather than making a call as you're trying to merge into traffic.