Is It Illegal to Use a Phone at a Red Light?

 Our phones have become ingrained in our everyday routines. Cell phones are owing to the fast-paced technological environment in which we live. Many individuals, unfortunately, cannot put their phones down long enough to drive from one location to another. As a result, more than one out of every four car accidents involves at least one person distracted by their phone.

The dangerous and unlawful texting while driving has spread like a virus, from surfing Google to sending a text message. We all know it's against the law to text while driving. But what about when you're at a red light?

Using a phone at a red light

California has had explicit regulations against texting while driving in place since 2009. According to the Wireless Communications Device Law, it is against the law to read, write, or send text messages while going.

This legislation applies even if you're waiting at a red light if you're driving. Furthermore, the Handheld Wireless Telephone Laws, which have been in place since 2008, clarify that a driver may only use a wireless phone while driving for emergency services. Even though hands-free devices are permitted, the driver must be 18 years old.

Many Traffic Judges incorrectly state that if you are driving a car in a lane of traffic (that is, not adequately parked), you cannot have a cell phone or mobile device in your hand. But, of course, the Vehicle Code stipulates that the driver must be "using the mobile device" for it to be a violation, which many Traffic Judges choose to overlook.

It's also worth noting that using a Bluetooth or similar earpiece while driving in California is acceptable as long as you don't cover both of your ears; you always expect to hear emergency cars or other critical sounds around you. Although push-to-talk features were once permissible, they are now only permitted when used with a hands-free earpiece or similar hands-free device as of 2011.

When someone breaks the law and gets caught in the act, they will face financial consequences. The first penalty for talking on the phone while driving is only $20, while subsequent crimes are $50. When a driver's fine with penalty assessments, they may wind up paying three times the fine's base amount.

Is it possible for me to fight my traffic ticket?

The repercussions of receiving a ticket for texting while driving can be pretty serious. You could face not just hefty penalties and points on your license, but you could even suffer license suspension due to your activities. A traffic ticket can have a variety of effects on your life. If you receive access to texting while driving, you must dispute the charges to avoid the associated penalties.

 

Penalties for using the cell phone

Because cell phone offenses are so dangerous, they can result in significant penalties. For example, using your phone while stopped at a red light will result in the same consequences:

●       A fine of $200 to $400 will be there for a first offense cell phone violation.

●       A fine of $400 to $600 will be there for a second infraction within ten years.

●       A third or subsequent offense will result in a fine ranging from $600 to $800, three points on your driving record, and a 90-day license suspension within ten years.

Violations of the cell phone law impose hefty fines that might significantly influence your financial future. If you or a loved one gets stopped for a mobile phone offense, you should seek the advice of an experienced traffic violations lawyer. Your penalties and points may reduce if you hire counsel. Contact our firm right away if you have any questions regarding the proposed bill or how it might affect you.

 

Contact an experienced Denver Traffic Lawyer.

It is to your best advantage to speak with a professional and experienced Denver traffic attorney who has assisted other clients accused of texting or talking on their phones while driving.

The Denver Traffic Lawyers are concerned about your best interests and will work tirelessly to have your ticket dismissed.