Handheld personal communications devices; use while driving, penalty. (SB1279)

Introduced By

Sen. Jennifer Wexton (D-Leesburg)

Description

Use of handheld personal communications devices while driving; penalty. Provides that, subject to certain exceptions, using a handheld personal communications device while operating a moving vehicle, unless such device is used in voice-operated or hands-free mode, is a traffic infraction punishable by a fine of $125 for a first offense and $250 for a second or subsequent offense. If a person is using such a device at the same time he (i) violates any traffic offense punishable as a misdemeanor or a felony or (ii) causes an accident as the proximate result of his use of the device, he is guilty of reckless driving, a Class 1 misdemeanor. Currently, only texting while driving is a traffic infraction, subject to the same $125 and $250 fines. The bill also eliminates the additional mandatory minimum fine imposed upon a person convicted of reckless driving who was texting while driving at the time of the offense. Read the Bill »

Outcome

History