New Cell Phone Law Means Texting and Driving Can Get You Pulled Over in Florida
Known as the "Wireless Communications While Driving Law", the legislation was passed by the Florida Legislature and signed by Florida Governor Ron DeSantis.
CLEARWATER, Fla., Oct. 24, 2019 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ -- Florida's new texting and driving law went into effect on July 1, 2019, making any typing into a handheld device while driving a primary offense. Known as the "Wireless Communications While Driving Law", the legislation was passed by the Florida Legislature and signed by Florida Governor Ron DeSantis.
"With Florida's new law on cell phone use, motorists can be pulled over by law enforcement and cited for texting and driving," said criminal defense attorney Daviana M. Garcia, of Carlson, Meissner, Hart & Hayslett, P.A. "It is important for drivers to understand the law specifies that it is illegal to operate a motor vehicle while manually typing into a wireless communications device or entering multiple letters, symbols, or numbers. This applies not only to texting, but also to emailing and instant messaging."
According to the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, in 2018, there were 3,655 distracted driving crashes in the state, and 171 were due to texting. In the same year, Florida law enforcement officers issued 1,608 first offense citations for texting while driving.
Penalties for texting while driving vary based on the number of times a motorist is cited. The first offense is a non-moving traffic violation, the base fine is $30, and no points are assessed against the driver's license. The second offense within five years is considered a moving traffic violation, the base fine is $60, and three points are assessed against the driver's license.
"This new law also provides that – effective October 1, 2019 – motorists may only use a hands-free wireless device when driving in a designated school zone, a school crossing, or an active work area zone," continued attorney Garcia. "Law enforcement officers will issue warnings on these violations through December 31, 2019."
Beginning January 1, 2020, drivers will be cited for using any wireless communication devices in a handheld manner in a work zone or school zone. Any offense is considered a moving traffic violation, the base fine is $60, and three points are assessed against the driver's license.
Attorneys at the law office of Carlson, Meissner, Hart & Hayslett, P.A. have been protecting and preserving the legal rights of the Tampa Bay area community since 1971. The firm's legal team includes five former state attorneys, two board certified criminal specialists, and a former FBI special agent. Carlson, Meissner, Hart & Hayslett, P.A. attorneys provide expertise, knowledge, and superior legal representation.
Located in Clearwater, Florida, Carlson, Meissner, Hart & Hayslett, P.A. has an innovative practice, proven litigation skills, a reputation for excellence, and a track record of success, making the firm Tampa Bay's premier legal team. For more information about your rights under Florida's new law, contact the skilled attorneys at Carlson, Meissner, Hart & Hayslett, P.A. Visit the firm website at CarlsonMeissner.com or contact the office directly at 877-728-9653.
SOURCE Carlson Meissner
