California Laws Regarding the Use of Cell Phones While Driving

California Laws Regarding the Use of Cell Phones While Driving

While California doesn’t have the toughest laws on distracted driving, there are a number of regulations in relation to cell phone use that you should be aware of if you are a driver. Here are some of the main things you need to know in order to drive safely and avoid a violation.

• If you’re under 18, you shouldn’t be touching or using your cell phone while driving. Even hands-free calls are off-limits for teens with limited driving experience.
• If you’re 18 or older, you still can’t text, but you can make hands-free phone calls.
• If you’re 18 or older, you can actually pick up your phone for a couple of seconds while driving, but only for the sake of dialing a number. Then you have to take the call on a headset or speakerphone.
• Cell phone laws only apply on public roads. If you are in your own driveway, on a private road, or driving through a field somewhere, you can use your phone as much as you want.
• If an emergency arises, you can call the emergency services, police, fire, etc. without having to make a handsfree call.
• Authorized drivers of emergency service vehicles don’t have the same cell phone restrictions as other drivers. Everyone should be giving these vehicles the right of way anyway, so the distraction should add minimal danger.

If You Have Been Injured in an Auto Accident in California

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