Mobile phone use while driving and associated factors: an observational study in Córdoba, Argentina

Mobile phone use while driving (MPWD) is a growing road safety concern. This observational study explores handheld MPWD and associated factors in the city of Córdoba, Argentina. A total of 117,799 vehicle drivers were observed in different areas, road types, time slots, and days of the week. The data collection period spanned from June 2023 to June 2024. Data were collected on vehicle type, driver’s sex, estimated age group, driving speed (measured via gun radar), and handheld mobile phone use. Factors associated with handheld mobile phone use (yes/not) were analyzed using a multiple logistic regression model. The observed percentage of mobile phone use was 4.6%. The logistic regression results indicate higher usage among young adult drivers (18–24 years), delivery motorcycle riders, and those driving light and heavy cargo vehicles. Additionally, mobile phone use was more prevalent on weekdays and during afternoon hours, compared to the morning. Greater use was also noted on major urban roads rather than local streets, and during periods of lower traffic count. On average, drivers using mobile phones traveled at lower speeds. MPWD was linked to human, environmental, and situational factors. Drivers seem to regulate when and where they use their phones and exhibit risk-compensatory behaviors, such as reducing speed. Young drivers and those who drive for work should be priority targets for prevention campaigns.