How to Learn About State Regulations on Cell Phone Use While Driving

Using a cell phone while driving is a hot topic in many states, and studies have begun to conclude that talking on a cell phone does present an increased risk of accidents. Some states now have regulations barring or limiting cell-phone use while driving. Fines and penalties can be severe, so it's important to learn about the regulations in place in your own state regarding cell-phone use while driving.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Computer with Internet access

1. Learn about state regulations on the use of cell phones while driving from the Governor's Highway Safety Association (see Resources below). It currently offers one of the most concise listing of laws and regulations available.
2. Visit the home page of your own state's Department of Transportation to learn specifically about the regulations in place in your state. A simple Internet search using your favorite search engine will be able to help.
3. Contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration by calling [phone] to learn about national regulations regarding cell-phone use on the road.
4. Note that some states (Utah, for example) regulate cell-phone use while driving under the definition "distracted driver." Legally, this can mean that additional blame could be placed on you in the case of an accident or citation.
5. Note some states have only limited legislation in place regarding cell-phone use while driving. In Arizona, for example, normal civilian drivers are not prevented from talking on a cell phone while driving, but school-bus drivers are prohibited from doing so except in emergency instances.

Tips & Warnings

• As a rule of thumb, always use a hands-free headset. They are relatively inexpensive and dramatically reduce the risk of distraction while driving. Several Bluetooth headsets are also available, which make it easy to make calls and even dial numbers without having to actually hold your cell phone.
• Penalties for using a cell phone while driving where it is prohibited can carry very steep fines, sometimes upwards of $200. Legislation in some areas allows cell-phone use while driving to be reported to your insurance company, which can lead to increased premiums.