<P> Due to the increasing complexity of mobile phones, they are often more like mobile computers in their available uses . This has introduced additional difficulties for law enforcement officials when attempting to distinguish one usage from another in drivers using their devices . This is more apparent in countries which ban both handheld and hands - free usage, rather than those which ban handheld use only, as officials cannot easily tell which function of the mobile phone is being used simply by looking at the driver . This can lead to drivers being stopped for using their device illegally for a phone call when, in fact, they were using the device legally, for example, when using the phone's incorporated controls for car stereo, GPS or satnav . </P> <P> A 2010 study reviewed the incidence of mobile phone use while cycling and its effects on behaviour and safety . In 2013, a national survey in the US reported the number of drivers who reported using their cellphones to access the Internet while driving had risen to nearly one of four . A study conducted by the University of Vienna examined approaches for reducing inappropriate and problematic use of mobile phones, such as using mobile phones while driving . </P> <P> Accidents involving a driver being distracted by talking on a mobile phone have begun to be prosecuted as negligence similar to speeding . In the United Kingdom, from 27 February 2007, motorists who are caught using a hand - held mobile phone while driving will have three penalty points added to their license in addition to the fine of £ 60 . This increase was introduced to try to stem the increase in drivers ignoring the law . Japan prohibits all mobile phone use while driving, including use of hands - free devices . New Zealand has banned hand - held cell phone use since 1 November 2009 . Many states in the United States have banned texting on cell phones while driving . Illinois became the 17th American state to enforce this law . As of July 2010, 30 states had banned texting while driving, with Kentucky becoming the most recent addition on July 15 . </P> <P> Public Health Law Research maintains a list of distracted driving laws in the United States . This database of laws provides a comprehensive view of the provisions of laws that restrict the use of mobile communication devices while driving for all 50 states and the District of Columbia between 1992 when first law was passed, through December 1, 2010 . The dataset contains information on 22 dichotomous, continuous or categorical variables including, for example, activities regulated (e.g., texting versus talking, hands - free versus handheld), targeted populations, and exemptions . </P>

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