Distracted Driving Laws in the United States

Most people know that distracted driving is dangerous, but did you know that you could also be breaking the law?

Distracted driving is defined as any activity that takes the drivers attention away from operating the vehicle. Texting, talking on a cell phone, eating and drinking, talking to passengers, and adjusting the radio are all forms of distractions for the driver. Each of these actions can endanger the driver, passenger, and bystanders.

The laws against distracted driving vary from state-to-state. It is important to learn the laws in your state. Below is a list of relevant distracted driving laws in the United States. For a complete list of states, visit www.idrivesafely.com.

Distracted Driving Laws by State

CALIFORNIA

There is a handheld ban for all drivers.
Cell phone use is prohibited (handheld and hands-free) for bus drivers.
Use of any kind of wireless communication device is prohibited (handheld and hands-free) for drivers under the age of 18.
Texting is illegal for all drivers.

FLORIDA

Texting is illegal for all drivers.

NEW MEXICO

There is a handheld ban for drivers in Santa Fe, Las Cruces, and Rio Rancho.
Cell phone use is prohibited (handheld and hands-free) for drivers who hold an instruction or provisional license.
Texting is illegal for all drivers.

NEW YORK

There is a handheld ban for all drivers.
Texting is illegal for all drivers.

TEXAS

Cell phone use is prohibited (handheld and Hands-free) for drivers under the age of 18.
Cell phone use is prohibited (handheld and Hands-free) for bus drivers.
It is illegal to use handheld phones and text in school zones.
Texting while driving is prohibited in Arlington, Canyon City, Denton, Edinburg, Farmer’s Branch, Galveston, Grand Prairie, Magnolia, McAllen, Missouri City, Nacogdoches, and Pecos. Texting and handheld cell phone use while driving is prohibited in Amarillo, Austin, Corpus Christi, El Paso, San Antonio, and Stephenville.

Didn’t see your state? Find it here

Remember, distracted driving is extremely dangerous. It is recommended that you avoid all distractions when operating a vehicle. For more information on distracted driving, check out Driving in the USA: The Dangers of Distracted Driving.