Is Texting While Driving a Moving Violation?
Contents
What is a Moving Violation?
Before we dive into the main question, it’s essential to understand what a moving violation is. A moving violation is an infraction of traffic laws or regulations that occurs while a vehicle is in motion. It’s a violation that can be committed by a driver while driving, whether it’s speeding, running a red light, or failing to yield to another driver. Moving violations are typically punished with fines, points on a driver’s license, or even suspension or revocation of the license.
Is Texting While Driving a Moving Violation?
So, is texting while driving a moving violation? The answer is yes. In all 50 states and the District of Columbia, texting while driving is illegal and considered a moving violation. However, the specific laws and penalties vary from state to state.
Here’s a breakdown of the laws:
| State | Ban on Hand-Held Cell Phones | Ban on Texting |
|---|---|---|
| Alabama | Yes | Yes |
| Alaska | Yes | Yes |
| Arizona | Yes | Yes |
| Arkansas | Yes | Yes |
| California | Yes | Yes |
| Colorado | Yes | Yes |
| Connecticut | Yes | Yes |
| Delaware | Yes | Yes |
| Florida | Yes | Yes |
| Georgia | Yes | Yes |
| Hawaii | Yes | Yes |
| Idaho | No | Yes |
| Illinois | Yes | Yes |
| Indiana | Yes | Yes |
| Iowa | Yes | Yes |
| Kansas | Yes | Yes |
| Kentucky | Yes | Yes |
| Louisiana | Yes | Yes |
| Maine | Yes | Yes |
| Maryland | Yes | Yes |
| Massachusetts | Yes | Yes |
| Michigan | Yes | Yes |
| Minnesota | Yes | Yes |
| Mississippi | Yes | Yes |
| Missouri | Yes | Yes |
| Montana | No | Yes |
| Nebraska | Yes | Yes |
| Nevada | Yes | Yes |
| New Hampshire | Yes | Yes |
| New Jersey | Yes | Yes |
| New Mexico | Yes | Yes |
| New York | Yes | Yes |
| North Carolina | Yes | Yes |
| North Dakota | Yes | Yes |
| Ohio | Yes | Yes |
| Oklahoma | Yes | Yes |
| Oregon | Yes | Yes |
| Pennsylvania | Yes | Yes |
| Rhode Island | Yes | Yes |
| South Carolina | Yes | Yes |
| South Dakota | Yes | Yes |
| Tennessee | Yes | Yes |
| Texas | Yes | Yes |
| Utah | Yes | Yes |
| Vermont | Yes | Yes |
| Virginia | Yes | Yes |
| Washington | Yes | Yes |
| West Virginia | Yes | Yes |
| Wisconsin | Yes | Yes |
| Wyoming | No | Yes |
Note: This table is not exhaustive, but it gives an idea of the laws in each state. It’s essential to check the specific laws in your state for the most up-to-date information.
The Dangers of Texting While Driving
Texting while driving is a serious safety risk that can have devastating consequences. When a driver is texting, they are taking their eyes off the road, their hands off the wheel, and their attention away from the road. This increases the risk of accidents, injuries, and fatalities.
Here are some alarming statistics:
- In 2018, 3,166 people were killed in motor vehicle crashes involving distracted drivers, including those who were texting while driving. (Source: National Highway Traffic Safety Administration)
- Sending or receiving a text message takes a driver’s eyes off the road for an average of 4.6 seconds. At 55 mph, that’s equivalent to driving the length of a football field blindfolded. (Source: AAA)
- In 2019, distracted driving claimed 8,760 lives in the United States. (Source: National Highway Traffic Safety Administration)
Consequences of Texting While Driving
If you are caught texting while driving, you could face severe consequences, including:
- Fines: The fines for texting while driving vary from state to state, but they can range from $20 to $1,000 or more.
- Points on your license: Texting while driving can result in points being added to your driver’s license, which can lead to increased insurance rates, suspended or revoked licenses, and even mandatory traffic school.
- Insurance increases: Insurance companies view texting while driving as a serious offense, and they may increase your premiums accordingly.
- Court appearances: In some cases, texting while driving can lead to court appearances, fines, and even community service.
- License suspension or revocation: Repeat offenders may face license suspension or revocation, making it difficult to get to work, school, or other essential destinations.
Conclusion
In conclusion, texting while driving is a moving violation that can have severe consequences. It’s essential to understand the laws in your state and to avoid engaging in this dangerous behavior. Remember, texting while driving is not only illegal but also deadly. Don’t risk your life and the lives of others. Keep your eyes on the road and your hands on the wheel.
