Cellphone Use and Driving
California Cell Phone Use Law
Since July 1, 2008, California drivers have been prohibited from using handheld wireless phones while operating motor vehicles under the California Vehicle Code (Cal.Veh.C.) Section 23123.
There are however, exceptions under the new law:
- Drivers over the age of 18 may still use wireless phones while driving as long as they use a hands-free device.
- Drivers in California may still use handheld phones for emergency purposes.
- People operating commercial trucks or trailers (excluding pickups), farm vehicles, and tow trucks, involving the use of handheld devices operated by a “push-to-talk” feature.
Law enforcement officials are empowered to ticket violators without evidence of any other driving violation. First offenses will be fined at $20 and each additional violation will cost $50.
Minors and Cell Phone Use
Drivers under the age of 18 will no longer be permitted to use a wireless phone while driving, with or without a hands-free device (Cal.Veh.C. Section 23124).
An exception to this law is that minors may use their cell phone to contact law en¬forcement, a health care provider, or the fire department, in an emergency situation.
Convictions for violations of this law are subject to fines.
No Texting Law
The No-Texting Law took effect last January 1, 2009. California drivers may not use a wireless communications device to write, send, or read text-based communications, while driving a motor vehicle.