What is the law in Virginia regarding cell phone use?
On July 1st, 2020, it became illegal to hold a handheld personal communications device (e.g., a smart phone) while driving a moving motor vehicle on the highways in Virginia. The new law will not be effective until January 1st, 2021, to allow for educating the public about its provisions.
Can you get pulled over for talking on the phone in Virginia?
What Happens if I’m Pulled Over? With Virginia’s new law, police will pull you over for handheld cellphone use as a primary offense alone. That means you do not need to be suspected of any other traffic infraction for the citation to be initiated, unlike the prior secondary enforcement.
Can you use your phone at a red light in Virginia?
Now there are two notable exceptions to the law: If you are lawfully parked or stopped you may grab that phone and that includes being stopped at a red light, or if you need to call 911 because of an emergency.
What are the main provisions of Virginia’s law against cell phone use and driving?
Cell Phone Use Effective January 1, 2021 Virginia law prohibits drivers from holding cell phones or any other wireless communication devices while driving except in a driver emergency or the vehicle is lawfully parked or stopped.
Can you hold your phone while driving in Virginia?
As a result of Virginia House Bill 874, a new 2021 Virginia cell phone law makes it illegal to hold a cell phone in any manner while driving.
Is Virginia a hands-free driving state?
As of January 1, 2021, Virginia is one of many “hands free” states when it comes to cell phone use behind the wheel. Pursuant to Virginia Code Section 46.2-818.2 it is now unlawful for a driver to hold a handheld personal communications device.
How much is a phone ticket in VA?
Under Code of Virginia § 46.2-818.2., drivers can be charged with a traffic violation and fined $125 for the first offense and $250 for a second offense. Drivers face a mandatory $250 fine if they hold a cell phone while driving in a highway work zone.
Is it illegal to talk on the phone while driving?
talking on the mobile while driving the car will not be punishable anymore in India said a recent report. Union Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari said while answering a question in the Lok Sabha, that there will be no challan for the use of Hands-Free Device.
What is the penalty for using phone while driving?
The Law. It is illegal to use a handheld mobile phone or similar device when driving, stopped at traffic lights or queuing in traffic. You will receive a fine of £200 and 6 penalty points if you are caught using a handheld phone while driving. Points on your licence could result in higher insurance premiums.
How many points is a cell phone ticket in VA?
three points
Did you know that Virginia prohibits holding a phone while driving? As of January 1, 2021, that’s now a traffic infraction with a minimum $125 fine AND three points on your driving record.
Can you use your phone while parked?
The ONLY time you are allowed to use your mobile phone while in the car is when your car is parked up and your engine is off. Not when you’re engine is still running – even if you’re parked up, so be very wary of this. There is only ONE exception when you’re allowed to use your phone while driving.
Is it illegal to carry a cell phone while driving in Virginia?
Under the new law, it is unlawful for any person to hold a handheld personal communications device, while driving a motor vehicle in Virginia. However, the law provides an exception for some drivers, including: The operator of any emergency vehicle while he is engaged in the performance of his official duties;
What is the current Virginia Law on texting and driving?
Under the current law, Virginia drivers are prohibited from typing or texting on a device while behind the wheel. The current law also deems it unlawful for a driver to hold a device in their hand while passing through a construction zone.
What does Virginia’s ban on cell phone use mean for You?
The law banning cell phone use while operating a motor vehicle aims to make the Commonwealth a safer place. Nonetheless, accidents will continue to occur. If you are injured in an accident caused by a distracted driver, contact an experienced Virginia car accident attorney for a free consultation today.
Can you use a cell phone while driving?
Any use of a cell phone while driving can distract drivers, significantly increasing the risk of an accident. Amateur/CB radio use. For the most part, this exception relates to truck drivers who use CB radios to communicate with other truck drivers on the roadways. Even so, drivers of passenger vehicles may also use CB radios.