Washington State Taking Distracted Driving Laws More Seriously

Distracted Driving | Texting and Driving Laws | Lopez & Humphries, P.A.

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States Taking Action Against Distracted Driving

Many states are finally taking action against distracted driving, Washington being the latest. They have now labeled ‘Distracted Driving’ as ‘DUI-E’ (driving under the influence of electronics), and they are taking it very seriously. This new law is under effect, and violating this policy will result in a $136 ticket.

Cell Phone Usage While Driving

With the widespread use of smartphones, it is common for drivers to send text messages or use social media while driving. This behavior has resulted in many fatal car accidents, distracted-driving related injuries, and expensive damage. The Washington law has aimed at stopping cell phone (or handheld device) usage completely. If a police office catches you using an electronic device at a red light or stop sign, you will receive a ticket.

What Is Illegal/Legal Under This Law?

Watching videos, using social media, texting, taking photographs/videos, and many other actions are now illegal when you are driving. But the law has included some leniency for electronics usage when driving. This freedom allows for the ‘minimal use of a finger’, which basically means that you can still use electronics that are simple to operate. Some acceptable devices are car stereos, GPS systems, and windshield-mounted devices.

The Goal of This Law

In general, this law aims to eliminate cell phone usage while driving. According to the Seattle Times, cell phones were involved in 156 out of 537 fatal car accidents last year. Because of this, many citizens are in complete agreement for laws such as this one. The fine for violating this law increases to $234 after the first offense (for a five-year period). Violating this new law will result in a mark on your driving record.

Temporary Grace Period

There is a small grace period that will give residents of Washington some time to purchase hands-free equipment for their vehicle. The ultimate goal is to encourage drivers to be responsible while driving, and focus on the road. Hopefully many other states will follow Washington’s lead and begin taking this issue seriously. For anyone that is interested in following along with this bill’s progress in Washington, click this link to see all updates to the bill.

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