No holding, no swiping: California's tough no touch phone law for drivers, simplified
California's No Touch Phone Law
According to a report by Fielding Law Firm, even if the phone is held briefly to check directions or notifications, it is considered a violation. As per the law, phones must be mounted and can be used in hands-free mode, with only a single swipe or tap allowed, as per the report.
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Court Decision Triggers Stricter Enforcement
The strict enforcement of California's no touch phone law came after "a California Court of Appeal decision clarified the intent behind
California Vehicle Code § 23123.5
," as reported by Fielding Law Firm.
The court has pointed out that even just holding a phone for a short moment while driving, without even actively texting or calling, violates the law, according to the report. The latest ruling has strengthened the current distracted driving laws and removed the common loopholes, according to the Fielding Law Firm report.
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Fielding Law Firm's report pointed out that, the "law exists to reduce crashes, protect lives, and make the rules around phone use clear and enforceable."
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What the Law Now Requires?
Drivers in California must now comply with the following rules even when they are on the freeway, stopped at a light, or in a parking lot, as per the report. Fielding Law Firm listed the latest rules as follows:
Phones must be mounted on the dashboard or in a lower corner of the windshield
Only a single tap or swipe is permitted while driving
Voice commands may be used for calls, texts, and navigation
Drivers under 18 are prohibited from using phones at all, even hands-free
Emergency calls (such as to 911) are permitted
Penalties Drivers Should Know
According to the report, the latest law is subject to primary enforcement, meaning that law enforcement can stop and cite a driver solely for violating this rule. The Fielding Law Firm listed the penalties, which include:
A base fine of $20 for a first offense, which typically increases to more than $160 after fees
A base fine of $50 for subsequent offenses, which may exceed $280 in total cost
Multiple offenses can also result in points on your license and increased insurance premiums.
FAQs
Can I hold my phone just to check a map at a stoplight?
No, even holding your phone while stopped is considered a violation, it must be mounted and used hands-free, as per the report.
Will I get pulled over just for touching my phone?
Yes. This is a primary enforcement law, meaning officers don't need another reason to stop you.
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