Safe Driving Laws in Texas and Cell Phone Usage

Several driving laws impact our behavior behind the wheel, with a significant focus on cell phone use in emerging laws and ordinances. As laws vary from state to state and even county to county, it’s crucial for drivers to remain aware of applicable laws where they live, work, and drive. Reynolds and Reynolds Law Firm has compiled a breakdown of phone-related driving legislation in North Texas to aid drivers in staying safe on the road.

Statewide Regulations

The most notable legal action regarding texting and driving is the statewide texting ban, effective September 1st of 2017. While some counties had already implemented this law, it then became effective for the entire state of Texas, aiming to increase driver compliance uniformly.

• Another set of statewide ordinances addresses new drivers and those under 18. Learner permit holders are prohibited from using handheld cell phones for the first six months of driving, and drivers under 18 cannot use any wireless communications device.
• School zones are a significant focus of distracted driving legislation. Currently, drivers are barred from texting and using handheld devices while in school zones.
• Additionally, a statewide law prohibits school bus drivers from using cell phones when children are present.

It’s essential to be aware of all phone-related driving ordinances in your state.

Regionally-specific Regulations

North Texas cities like Celina and Little Elm have enacted hands-free ordinances. Details can be found here.

Denton, Texas, has seen various phone-related driving laws over the past decade. Presently, Denton has a hands-free ordinance allowing cell phones to be touched only to answer or end a call and to manage navigation when the car is stopped. Emergency situations are an exception, permitting phone usage to contact authorities.

Taking Action

The most crucial advice for drivers is to refrain entirely from using cell phones while driving. Avoiding handheld device usage reduces distractions on the road, enhancing safety for all. If you must make a call or use GPS while driving, invest in a 100% hands-free device like a Bluetooth headset or phone mount for your dashboard. Smartphones offer voice activation features like Siri or Google Assistant, enabling hands-free usage while driving.

For further information on driving laws and safeguarding against distracted driving, reach out to Reynolds and Reynolds Law Firm in Frisco, TX, via phone at 214-891-6606 or online at https://rrlfirm.com/.

Reynolds & Reynolds Law Firm | Driving Laws | 214-891-6606