When can you use a handheld cell phone while driving in New Jersey?

In New Jersey, the use of handheld cell phones while driving is prohibited with specific exceptions. The correct answer highlights that a handheld cell phone can only be used in emergencies. This law is in place to promote safety on the roads, as using a handheld device can significantly distract drivers, increasing the risk of accidents.

In emergencies, the need to make a call for assistance—such as reporting an accident or calling for help—justifies the use of a handheld device. This aligns with the intent of the law, which is to ensure that drivers can still communicate during critical situations while discouraging routine cell phone use that can impair driving abilities.

In contrast, using a handheld phone at any other time, including while stopped at a red light or even using it with hands-free mode, is against the law in New Jersey. While hands-free operation is allowed and safer than handheld use, it is essential to recognize that the context of using a cell phone—especially without hands-free capabilities—has significant implications for traffic safety and legal compliance.