Phone More Distracting Than Passenger

Using a cell phone — even a hands-free phone — distracts drivers more than talking to a passenger, researchers say. The new study used driving simulators. Researchers tested 96 adults under age 50. Some people talked on a hands-free phone. Others talked to a passenger. People on the phone missed exits and drifted out of their lanes more often. Researchers said the passengers sometimes helped the drivers. For example, they pointed out exits or hazards. They also talked less in more intense driving situations. The study was in the Journal of Experimental Psychology: Applied. Reuters Health news service wrote about it December 1.