My last ticket was driving while talking on the phone a little over 3 years ago, it was tucked in between my shoulder. The cop saw the light from it and wrote me a ticket. $256 later I decided that it wasnt for me ( it was more than half of my 2 weeks pay working at Subway). I have been to traffic school before that and seen the videos of mangled people resulting from car crashes... Its not worth it no matter what..... I barely have my cell on me as it is just because I know when an important call will come and the others can just deal with my voice mail. The only thing about all this is some of you stated other things that I dont agree with.. I have been smoking in cars since I was 16 and got my license, I fail to see the resemblence. All of my cars have been stick and you dont look at the cigarette. By habbit its in my right hand, still able to shift as smooth as if it wasnt there. Certain foods I can see as not being a distraction as long as you prepare... My mom has always stuffed a bag of chips between her and the door for long trips (big bags) and french fries tucked in between the e-brake and center consol. Same thing, if you know where it is you dont need to look at it.... But ultimately it comes down to skill level on some things... Texting and talking without hands free will always be a stupid idea that could get you and others killed... Just my .02