Can you text at a red light in California? Here’s what traffic law says
At least nine people are killed every day in car crashes involving a distracted driver, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Anything from eating while driving to sending a text message is considered distracted driving.
What happens if you get caught using your cell phone while you’re stopped at a red light?
Here’s what the California state law says:
California law
Section 23123.5 of the California Vehicle Code went into effect January 2018. It states that a person cannot operate a motor vehicle while holding a handheld telephone or electronic device unless it is designed to allow voice-operated and hands-free use.
This does not apply to the manufacturer-installed systems in the vehicle.
A driver can use a wireless telephone or electronic device only if these two conditions are satisfied:
1. The telephone or device is mounted on a vehicle’s windshield like a GPS.
2. The driver deactivates or activates a feature or function on their device with a single swipe or tap.
Does this apply to a driver stopped at a red light?
The answer is yes.
Though the car is not moving, the vehicle is still being “operated.” The law states that a cell phone or electronic device can be used only if it is not in the driver’s hand.
“Even using cellphones in a hands-free manner can still be distracting,” said Samantha DeMelo, spokeswoman for the California Office of Traffic Safety.
The California Office of Traffic Safety states that using your cell phone behind the wheel is not only dangerous but illegal unless parked.
“It’s best to avoid all use of cellphones while driving,” said DeMelo. “If a person needs to use their phone, they should pull over and park at a safe location.”
What happens if you get caught?
DeMelo said that police have pulled over multiple people who have been caught using their phones even when stopped at a light.
If you are pulled over for using your cellphone while driving, California Vehicle Code states that the following will happen:
▪ A violation of this section is a base fine of $20 for a first offense;
▪ Repeat offenders will receive a fine of $50 for each subsequent offense;
▪ One point will be issued on your license for every conviction that occurs.
This story was originally published June 15, 2023 at 5:00 AM with the headline "Can you text at a red light in California? Here’s what traffic law says."
