The General Services Administration (GSA) has set a new policy for cellular telephone use. While the policy only affects federal agencies and their employees, it demonstrates one approach to cellular telephone safety. According to the new policy, federal agencies should:

  • Discourage the use of hand-held wireless phones by a driver while operating vehicles owned or leased by the government;
  • Provide a portable hands-free accessory and/or a hands-free car kit for government-owned wireless phones; and,
  • Educate employees on using hands-free wireless phones.

The GSA also offered cellular phone driving safety tips:

  • Always keep your hands on the wheel and eyes on the road;
  • Place your phone where it is easy to see and reach. Know how to operate your phone.
  • Use a hands-free microphone.
  • Use the speed dialing feature.
  • When dialing manually without the speed dialing feature, dial only when stopped.
  • Never take notes while driving. Use an electronic scratchpad if necessary.
  • Let your wireless network's voice mail pick up your calls when it's unsafe to answer the car phone.
  • Use 9-1-1 (a free call) to report crimes, emergencies or accidents.