California Laws on Cell Phone Use While Driving

Technology has come a long way in improving the lives of millions of people. The use of mobile phones is one of the things that support this. Most people today have at least one mobile phone in their pocket or in their hands. One advantage of having such a gadget is its convenience in communicating and relaying information to various connections. However, having a mobile phone is not without its disadvantages.

 

One of the most common disadvantages of using a mobile phone is that it distracts a person, especially when he or she is driving a motor vehicle. Having a hand-held wireless communication device can help the person who is always on-the-go. However, calling or texting while driving is now seen as one of the major reasons for enormous number of vehicular accidents in the United States.

 

Because of this, most states and localities have adopted laws preventing drivers from using mobile phones and other wireless communication devices while driving. The State of California is one of the states that have such laws. Here are three of them currently in effect:

 

• California Vehicle Code (CVC) 23123. This law, which was implemented July 1, 2008, prohibits drivers from using a handheld wireless telephone while operating any motorized vehicle. This applies to both California and non-California residents. However, passengers may use their gadgets while inside a moving vehicle.

 

• CVC 23124. This law, which was made effective on the same date as the previous law, allows drivers to use hands-free devices attached to their mobile phones while driving. Only drivers 18 years of age and above, however, may use them, while below 18 are strictly prohibited.

 

• Wireless Communications Device Law. This law, which was implemented January 1, 2009, penalizes a driver if he or she is caught typing, sending or reading text-based communication with the use of a mobile phone while driving.

 

The California state government seeks to lessen road accidents due to distractions, which is why they implemented these laws. Distraction-related accidents can be lowered through proper education and implementation of safe driving. To know more about other laws that will eradicate distracted driving, one may consult an accident attorney Los Angeles.