Cell phone, texting update: Violators of the 2020 hands-free driving law will now see demerit points vs. their licenses. The law barring drivers from using handheld communications devices took effect July 1, 2020, but the points went into effect a year later. State law officers issued more than 14,000 citations and warnings for electronic distracted driving as of early 2023. Fines up to $500 under the law generated by Rep. Holli Sullivan's HB 1070. Gov. Holcomb called for the hands-free law while announcing his agenda for the 2020 legislative session and repeated the message in the State … [Read more...]
U.S. cell phone, texting laws at a glance
December 3, 2008 by 22 Comments
An up-to-date listing of cell phone and texting restrictions across the States. Click on the state's name to view a full report on its distracted driving laws and pending legislation. Alabama: Handheld cell phone use and text messaging while driving illegal for anyone driving in the state of Alabama. Secondary enforcement. Alaska: Drivers are banned from text-messaging or watching videos. Arizona: Handheld cell phone use barred. School bus operators prohibited from using cell phones while driving. Arkansas: All drivers prohibited from text messaging. Drivers under 18 may not use … [Read more...]
Florida: Cell phone laws, legislation
December 3, 2008 by 65 Comments
Distracted driving news: Saying "distracted driving is an increasing problem in our state," Rep. Allison Tant is pushing fellow lawmakers to approve her hands-free House Bill 1469 of 2024. "We've had a number of pedestrian deaths, as well as biking deaths, as well as other distracted driving deaths." Florida motorists may no longer hold their cell phones when traveling through school and work zones. Fines: $60 plus fees and three points vs. the driver's license. As with the texting & driving law, enforcement is primary, meaning offenders are subject to being pulled over and cited for … [Read more...]
Wisconsin: Cell phone laws, legislation
November 17, 2008 by 31 Comments
Cell phone, texting update: Gov. Tony Evers has signed into law designed to protect first responders and roadside workers. The act includes a ban on cell phone use in areas where an accident or similar incident has occurred. The act also requires the DOT to educate the public on the dangers of cell phone use in emergency-response areas. The bill was authored by state Rep. Katrina Shankland and enacted Dec. 6, 2021. Madison area officials want to use Metro buses to catch texting & driving offenders. Dane County deputies would ride buses during off-peak hours and would notify officers at … [Read more...]
Ohio: Cell phone laws, legislation
September 16, 2008 by 79 Comments
Cell phone, text messaging news: A hands-free law with primary enforcement is now in full effect in Ohio -- and ticketing is under way. "Beginning today, if law enforcement sees a driver distracted by their phone, that driver can now be immediately pulled over," Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine said Oct. 5, 2023, at the end of a six-month warning period. Fines from $150 (first offense) to $500, plus points vs. the driver's license. Holding cell phone to ear for a call allowed, but not entry of a phone number. The law officially went into effect April 4. The hands-free law of 2023 originated with HB … [Read more...]
Recent Comments