It shocks me that often when I call a Realtor and others and s/he is driving that said individual more often than not blithely reports that they are _hands free_ a OK to talk. 

Not really: its the distraction itself that is the issue not just the chattering; many insurance companies have warned about this. 

The gov could really improve coffers by requiring NO cell phone use _period_ by any driver while behind wheel moving. Ive suggested this to some Legislature members. It would greatly increase revenue and is an essential reason why we need more police on roads in this anomalous part of history. It is insane to drive while talking on a cell. I often turn off radio in car to avoid all distraction. If you have not been in a vehicle when a driver runs a red light due to inattention, you have not experienced the shock and potential treachery brunt of cell phone madness. If anyone tells me s/he on a cell while driving, I politely say thanks, talk later gater.