(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.

-- Diana Kohnle

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