Is it acceptable to request a taxi driver stop using their phone while driving?

When I take a US Taxi, I'm noticing more and more that the drivers either text or call on hand-held phones while driving, both of which make me feel unsafe. Say, as unsafe as seeing an open beer can in the cup holder.

I'm familiar with statistics that pretty conclusively show that calling and texting while driving distracts you enough to make you unsafe, arguably more unsafe than driving intoxicated. To that end, I'd like to ask the driver to put the phone down for the duration of the trip, the same way I would ask my friends or parents to keep their phones put away with me as a passenger. But I'm also aware that taxi drivers do this for a living and probably know way more than I do about safe driving habits.

Is it reasonable for me expect the driver not to use their phone while driving? And if so, is it acceptable for me to request that the driver hold off on using it while I'm in the car with them?

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Pictures about "Is it acceptable to request a taxi driver stop using their phone while driving?"

Is it acceptable to request a taxi driver stop using their phone while driving? - Serious ethnic male taxi driver with hand in pocket having conversation on cellphone while standing near car

Is it acceptable to request a taxi driver stop using their phone while driving? - Thoughtful ethnic man talking on phone

Is it acceptable to request a taxi driver stop using their phone while driving? - Serious ethnic male driver looking at opened window of taxi

How do I ask a driver to stop?

"Please stop here." This use of can in English is very, very common.

Are taxi drivers allowed to talk on the phone UK?

Using a mobile phone is still illegal A \xa3200 fine will sting, but the mandatory 6 penalty points and a possible driving ban could cost you your licence and possibly your livelihood.

Why do taxi drivers have so many phones?

The taxis have a little side business for fares based on calls, care hire for half a day, etc. The drivers form their own little networks/loose affiliations with other drivers. Each driver can be a member of many networks, hence the multiple phones.

How do you deal with a rude taxi driver?

Don't respond with rudeness. If you respond with rudeness, you will only fuel that anger and make matters even worse. Don't mind their rudeness; you can choose to stay quiet, or respond with kindness. The driver will realize later on that his attitude was completely uncalled for.

Using a mobile phone while driving - what is and isn't legal?

Sources: Stack Exchange - This article follows the attribution requirements of Stack Exchange and is licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0.

Images: Tim Samuel, Tim Samuel, Tim Samuel, Tim Samuel