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Texting while driving
From lawbrain.com
Contents |
Overview
Sending or reading text messages while driving is banned or in the process of being banned in 19 states and DC.[1] Some states treat the use of cellphones and pagers as part of the larger issue of driving while distracted and legislate their use broadly.
| State | Law | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Arkansas | Ark Code 27-51-1501 | effective as of Oct 1, 2009, prohibits the use of a handheld wireless telephone for wireless interactive communication while operating a motor vehicle. |
| California | Cal. Vehicle Code 23123.5(a) | effective on Jan 1st, 2009, states that "a person shall not drive a motor vehicle while using an electronic wireless communications device to write, send, or read a text-based communication". This includes text messaging, instant messaging and electronic mail. The first offence results in a fine of $20, and subsequent violations are fined $50. |
| Colorado | Colo. Rev. Stat.42-4-239 | effective as of Dec 1, 2009. It prohibits the use of a wireless phone for text messaging while the driver is operating a motor vehicle. Drivers under 18 are prohibited from using a wireless phone while driving altogether. The first offense results in a $50 fine and a second and subsequent offenses are fined $100. |
Other states that have either enacted or are in the process of enacting vehicle laws that regulate the use of wireless communication devices for text messages are:
| State | Law | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Alaska | AS28.35.161 | Effective as of September 1, 2008. Texting while driving is a misdemeanor punishable by a fine of up to $5,000 and up to one year in jail. |
| Connecticut | | |
| District of Columbia | | |
| Illinois | | |
| Maryland | | |
| Maine | | |
| North Carolina | | |
| Rhode Island | | |
| Tennessee | | |
| Texas | | |
| Utah | | |
| Virginia | | |
References
External Links
- Cell Phone & Texting Laws
- Cellphones & Driving
- Countries that Ban Cellphones While Driving
- Cellphone Laws
- Statistics & Facts About Distracted Driving
- An Investigation of the Safety Implications of Wireless Communications in Vehicles
- New Cell Phone & Texting Laws
Related Resources on FindLaw
- Ban Cell Phones While Driving?
- Cellphone Related Accidents
- 9 out of 10 Drivers Distracted Behind the Wheel (FindLaw survey)
- Texting While Driving
- Distracted Driving
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Contributors
FindLaw Michelle, FindLaw Nira, FindLaw VM, JediJustice, Pddooley
