Put It Down: Focus on Driving

TEXTING-LAW

Effective July 1, 2019, motorists may be stopped and cited for texting and driving. Effective, October 1, 2019, wireless communications devices can only be used in a hands-free manner when driving in a designated school crossing, school zone or active work zone.

The Wireless Communications While Driving Law, section 316.305, Florida Statutes, allows law enforcement to stop motor vehicles and issue citations to motorists that are texting and driving. A person may not operate a motor vehicle while manually typing or entering multiple letters, numbers or symbols into a wireless communications device to text, email and instant message.

Section 316.306, Florida Statutes, is a prohibition on using wireless communications devices in a handheld manner in school and work zone.  A person may not operate a motor vehicle while using a wireless communications device in a handheld manner in a designated school crossing, school zone or active work zone area. Active work zone, as it pertains to Section 316.306, Florida Statutes, means that construction personnel are present or are operating equipment on the road or immediately adjacent to the work zone area.

Learn more about the new law: https://www.flhsmv.gov/safety-center/driving-safety/distracted-driving/