Is Texting and Driving a Moving Violation?
What is a Moving Violation?
Before we dive into the question of whether texting and driving is a moving violation, let’s define what a moving violation is. A moving violation is a type of traffic violation that occurs when a driver is operating a vehicle in motion and fails to comply with traffic laws or regulations. Examples of moving violations include speeding, reckless driving, and running a red light.
The Debate: Is Texting and Driving a Moving Violation?
The debate about whether texting and driving is a moving violation has been ongoing for years. Some argue that it is a moving violation because it involves operating a vehicle in motion while distracted, which increases the risk of accidents. Others argue that it is not a moving violation because it does not involve speeding, reckless driving, or other traditional moving violations.
The Law: What Does it Say?
In the United States, the laws regarding texting and driving vary from state to state. Some states have laws that specifically prohibit texting and driving, while others do not. However, most states have laws that prohibit distracted driving, which includes texting and driving.
** State-by-State Breakdown**
Here is a breakdown of the laws regarding texting and driving in each state:
| State | Law | Fine |
|---|---|---|
| Alabama | Prohibits texting and driving | Up to $25 |
| Alaska | Prohibits texting and driving | Up to $100 |
| Arizona | Prohibits texting and driving | Up to $150 |
| Arkansas | Prohibits texting and driving | Up to $100 |
| California | Prohibits texting and driving | Up to $150 |
| Colorado | Prohibits texting and driving | Up to $300 |
| Connecticut | Prohibits texting and driving | Up to $150 |
| Delaware | Prohibits texting and driving | Up to $100 |
| Florida | Prohibits texting and driving | Up to $60 |
| Georgia | Prohibits texting and driving | Up to $150 |
| Hawaii | Prohibits texting and driving | Up to $200 |
| Idaho | Prohibits texting and driving | Up to $75 |
| Illinois | Prohibits texting and driving | Up to $100 |
| Indiana | Prohibits texting and driving | Up to $100 |
| Iowa | Prohibits texting and driving | Up to $100 |
| Kansas | Prohibits texting and driving | Up to $100 |
| Kentucky | Prohibits texting and driving | Up to $50 |
| Louisiana | Prohibits texting and driving | Up to $100 |
| Maine | Prohibits texting and driving | Up to $100 |
| Maryland | Prohibits texting and driving | Up to $500 |
| Massachusetts | Prohibits texting and driving | Up to $100 |
| Michigan | Prohibits texting and driving | Up to $100 |
| Minnesota | Prohibits texting and driving | Up to $100 |
| Mississippi | Prohibits texting and driving | Up to $100 |
| Missouri | Prohibits texting and driving | Up to $100 |
| Montana | Prohibits texting and driving | Up to $100 |
| Nebraska | Prohibits texting and driving | Up to $100 |
| Nevada | Prohibits texting and driving | Up to $250 |
| New Hampshire | Prohibits texting and driving | Up to $100 |
| New Jersey | Prohibits texting and driving | Up to $200 |
| New Mexico | Prohibits texting and driving | Up to $50 |
| New York | Prohibits texting and driving | Up to $150 |
| North Carolina | Prohibits texting and driving | Up to $100 |
| North Dakota | Prohibits texting and driving | Up to $100 |
| Ohio | Prohibits texting and driving | Up to $150 |
| Oklahoma | Prohibits texting and driving | Up to $100 |
| Oregon | Prohibits texting and driving | Up to $100 |
| Pennsylvania | Prohibits texting and driving | Up to $200 |
| Rhode Island | Prohibits texting and driving | Up to $100 |
| South Carolina | Prohibits texting and driving | Up to $200 |
| South Dakota | Prohibits texting and driving | Up to $100 |
| Tennessee | Prohibits texting and driving | Up to $100 |
| Texas | Prohibits texting and driving | Up to $200 |
| Utah | Prohibits texting and driving | Up to $100 |
| Vermont | Prohibits texting and driving | Up to $100 |
| Virginia | Prohibits texting and driving | Up to $100 |
| Washington | Prohibits texting and driving | Up to $100 |
| West Virginia | Prohibits texting and driving | Up to $100 |
| Wisconsin | Prohibits texting and driving | Up to $100 |
| Wyoming | Prohibits texting and driving | Up to $100 |
The Consequences of Texting and Driving
Regardless of whether texting and driving is considered a moving violation, the consequences of engaging in this behavior are severe. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), in 2018, there were 3,166 people killed in motor vehicle crashes involving distracted drivers. In addition, the NHTSA estimates that distracted driving is responsible for 15% of all crashes in the United States.
The Legal Consequences
In addition to the financial consequences of a ticket, texting and driving can also lead to more serious legal consequences, including:
- Felony charges: In some states, texting and driving can lead to felony charges, particularly if the crash results in serious injury or death.
- License suspension: A conviction for texting and driving can result in the suspension of a driver’s license.
- Insurance increases: A conviction for texting and driving can result in increased insurance rates.
- Criminal charges: In some states, texting and driving can lead to criminal charges, including reckless endangerment or vehicular homicide.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while the laws regarding texting and driving vary from state to state, the consequences of engaging in this behavior are severe. Whether or not texting and driving is considered a moving violation, it is a serious offense that can result in financial, legal, and even criminal consequences. As such, it is important for drivers to avoid texting and driving at all costs and to focus on the road to ensure their own safety and the safety of others.
