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Texting while driving

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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 laws regarding restricting use of wireless communication hand-held devices while driving
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 laws regarding restriting use of wireless communication devices for text messages while driving
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

  1. http://www.ghsa.org/html/stateinfo/laws/cellphone_laws.html

External Links

Related Resources on FindLaw

Related Blogs on FindLaw

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