Backers of a proposed ban on cell phone use by drivers in Evanston say research shows phone use — hand-held or hands-free — causes crashes. But a newspaper analysis of the research paints a much more mixed picture.
The Chicago Tribune report says that while some of the studies show any cell phone use increases driver distractions, others suggest that most drivers self-regulate and drive more carefully when on the phone.
Evanston already bans hand-held cell phone use and aldermen are considering adopting a complete ban. Meanwhile, a state lawmaker has proposed a state-wide ban on hand-held cell phone use that would still permit use of hands-free devices.