Cell phone driving laws by State: What are distracted driving rules

With the advent of new technology trends, everyone of us is compelled to stay connected even behind the wheels.

Many automatic cars come with built-in features through which you can sync your smartphone, and go about handling your apps even without using it.

But what would someone suggest for those who own an old car? Interacting with someone on the phone no matter how urgent it is, can create hazards for them. Why? Because cell phone and driving laws by states differ when it comes to – an offense like – talking while driving.

In America, 47 states including Washington D.C. have strict laws in place pertaining to using cellphones while driving. Regardless of which state you live in, try to pull over whenever you need to make a call or use a hands-free device.

Later in this article, you will get to know about the handheld cell phone and driving laws.

States that have banned handheld cell phones

These states have banned cell phones usage while driving:

• Connecticut
• California
• New York
• Hawaii
• Columbia
• Delaware
• Illinois
• Nevada
• Maryland
• New Jersey
• Oregon
• New Hampshire
• Vermont
• Rhode Island
• West Virginia
• Washington

Due to the number of reported cases increasing with each passing day, the laws for handheld cell phones have been promulgated. Some states have banned using cellphones behind the wheels completely, while some have put age-related restrictions. What are they? Let’s check them out.

States that banned cell phone usage with age restrictions

You may be living in any of the states listed below, but you need to be above the mentioned age limit.

• Arkansas – 21
• Alabama – 16
• Indiana – 21
• Colorado – 18
• Georgia – 18
• Louisiana – 18
• Kentucky – 18
• Nebraska – 18
• Massachusetts – 18
• North Dakota – 18
• North Carolina – 18
• Texas – 18
• Ohio – 18
• Virginia- 18
• Utah – 18

There are several states that have not imposed any ban on handheld cell phones.

States that have not banned handheld cell phone

The following states have leveraged the drivers to use cell phones behind the wheels.

• Arizona
• Alaska
• Idaho
• Florida
• Lowa
• Kansas
• Minnesota
• Maine
• Mississippi
• New Mexico
• Montana
• Missouri
• Pennsylvania
• Oklahoma
• South Dakota
• South Carolina
• Tennessee
• Wyoming
• Wisconsin

What would happen if you are pulled over while using a cellphone?

The laws are there to protect people from getting injured, and combat distracted driving cases. Distracted driving diverts the driver’s attention. Activities like calling, texting, eating, drinking, tuning the radio, using car stereo, may distract your attention.

Texting is assumed to be the most dangerous act that affects your concentration while driving for more than 5 seconds.

Understanding the Consequences of Distracted driving

Distracted driving has the potential to cause a serious injury or even death. In 2018, the United States recorded 2,841 casualties due to car crashes alone. Distracted driving can be highly dangerous for every individual and can result in a totaled car.

Every state has its own driving laws in place. But if you are caught while using your cell phone behind the wheels, then it will not only cost you jail time but affect your auto insurance credit as well. It is better for you to check what driving laws the state has promulgated.

There are several reasons why strict distracted driving laws are in place. If you have been found guilty, then emotional, physical, financial, and legal consequences can hit you hard.

Stay alert and avoid crashing

People often take driving laws for granted. But the regular occurrence of distracted driving instances, and less awareness of the driving laws have severe consequences.

A slight negligence can cost a lifetime of suffering and pain. Remember that you are not only the one who is on the road. Knowing what is distracting you while driving can help you avoid accidents. Do ensure that you are not distracted while driving – to keep yourself and everyone safe.