Some states ban the use of handheld cell phones while operating a motor vehicle. To avoid distracted driving, certain jurisdictions require that you use a hands-free device. Due to the number of injuries caused by the use of cell phones, however, it is smarter to make the safest choice and not use your cell phone at all while driving. Distracted driving is a huge risk to public safety. According to the National Safety Council, at least 28% of all traffic crashes, or at least 1.6 million crashes each year, stem from drivers using cell phones and texting while driving.