Being distracted by a cell phone while driving can lead to dangerous scenarios. This has led California to implement a distracted driving law, which bans drivers from using handheld cell phones, with certain exceptions. These include making emergency calls and for those who are driving emergency vehicles.

If you have been injured by someone who was texting and driving in California, feel free to reach out to our Sacramento personal injury lawyers at (916) 921-6400 about the state’s distracted driving law. 

California vehicle code 23123.5 states: A person shall not drive a motor vehicle while using an electronic wireless communications device to write, send, or read a text-based communication, unless the electronic wireless communications device is specifically designed and configured to allow a voice-operated and hands-free operation to dictate, send, or listen to text-based communication, and it is used in that manner while driving. 

Distracted driving is any activity that takes your attention from the task of safe driving. They include texting or talking on your phone, talking to your passengers, eating, drinking, and playing with the radio or the navigation system. Safe driving requires your full attention on the road. Therefore, any activity you engage in other than driving is a distraction and can increase your chance of getting into an accident.