Can the passenger play with their phone?

[McBeau]

The passenger can use their phone. Whether the motor vehicle is in motion or stationary, the passenger using a phone has no impact and can be done without concern. However, during the movement of the motor vehicle, the driver is not allowed to use a phone as it will affect the driving safety of the motor vehicle. Below is additional information: Handling of motor vehicle violations: Any illegal activities or violations by the motor vehicle can be addressed at the vehicle management office or the traffic management department of the public security authorities. Cross-regional handling of violations: As long as the violations do not accumulate 12 or more points, they can be handled across regions. Handling vehicle violations across regions is convenient and not restricted. When processing, the driver's license and vehicle registration certificate must be carried.

[VanSarah]

From a legal perspective, there is usually no explicit prohibition against the passenger playing with their phone, but it is not recommended. When the passenger uses their phone, it may distract the driver—for example, screen flashes or voice playback can interfere with the driver's judgment, increasing the risk of accidents. When I drive, I notice that a passenger engrossed in their phone might neglect assisting with navigation or react slowly in emergencies. Even if regulations are lenient, for safety reasons, it's best to limit phone usage time and avoid prolonged use. It's advisable to use the phone only during traffic jams or breaks. On long trips, passengers should rest or engage in conversation more, helping the driver stay focused and making the journey safer and more comfortable overall.

[SanJulian]

Regarding the issue of playing with mobile phones in the passenger seat, I've checked some local regulations. Generally, it's not illegal for the passenger, but it could be a violation if it affects driving. For example, on highways, if the passenger watches videos loudly, the police might penalize them for causing disturbance. From personal experience, once a friend in the passenger seat was intensely playing games and suddenly shouted, causing me to almost miss a red light. Since then, I only allow passengers to use their phones briefly. The key is for passengers to exercise self-restraint—avoid turning on loudspeakers or making exaggerated movements. Safety is more important than entertainment. Driving is a team effort; it's best for the passenger to help observe road conditions rather than being engrossed in their phone. In case of an accident, regrets would be too late.

[EmersynDella]

The passenger can use their phone, but avoid being too loud or moving around excessively. The driver needs to concentrate while driving, and overly bright screens or loud sounds can be distracting. I recommend the passenger use headphones to lower the volume and only use the phone when necessary, such as checking maps. Short trips are relatively safer, but for long journeys, it's better to minimize phone use and instead help watch the road or take a rest. Safety is no trivial matter; passengers should respect the driver and avoid inadvertently increasing risks.

[SamuelLynn]

When I'm driving, having the passenger play with their phone makes me nervous. They get absorbed in their screens, lack environmental awareness, and reduce their assistance with road conditions, such as forgetting to alert me about vehicles behind us. This can also weaken communication, leading to a tense atmosphere in the car. Although there's no law against it, based on long-term observation, a passenger being engrossed in their phone increases the driver's burden. It's advisable for passengers to use their phones during low-risk moments, such as when driving at low speeds, and to take breaks or listen to music otherwise. Maintaining relaxed riding habits is more important for safety.

[LaVanessa]

Whether the passenger can play with their phone depends on the situation. In low-speed urban driving, the risk of using a phone is relatively low; however, on highways where speeds are high, distractions can have serious consequences. Different passengers also require adjustments—for example, it's fine if a child plays quietly, but it's best to limit phone use when young passengers are overly excited. Overall, using a phone is legal, but passengers should exercise self-control to avoid excessive use. Personally, I remind passengers to avoid forming a habit of scrolling on their phones to prevent unconscious interference with driving. Choosing other activities like conversation or assisting with navigation is safer and more efficient.