Wireless device tips — Rhode Island Permit Test

The manual's first tip is not to use a wireless device while driving; if you must, use message-taking functions and return calls when stopped at a safe location.

A call answered at 55 mph splits your mind; the same call returned in a parking lot costs nothing.

Use message-taking functions and return calls when you are stopped at a safe location.

If you must use a phone, plan the conversation in advance and keep it short, especially in bad weather or heavy traffic.

A long call in a rainstorm keeps your mind on the talk just when the road needs all of it.

Plan your conversation in advance and keep it short — especially in hazardous conditions such as inclement weather or heavy traffic.

If a phone conversation becomes emotional, pull off the road to a safe spot before continuing it.

An upsetting call can make a driver run a red light while their mind is on the news.

Pull off the road to a safe spot before continuing this type of conversation.

Ask a passenger to place the call for you and, if possible, to speak in your place.

A passenger making the call keeps the driver's eyes and mind on the road.

Ask a passenger in the car to place the call for you and, if possible, speak in your place.

Secure your phone in the car so it does not become a flying object in a crash.

In a sudden stop, a loose phone can fly forward and hit someone in the head.

Secure your wireless communication device in the car so that it does not become a projectile object in a crash.

If you get a call while driving, when does the manual say to return it?

When stopped at a safe location. A call answered at 55 mph splits your mind; the same call returned in a parking lot costs nothing. Rhode Island Driver’s Manual, p.19: “Use message-taking functions and return calls when you are stopped at a safe location.”