What to Know About the Legality of Texting While Driving in Texas

 Posted on November 21, 2022 in Criminal Defense

Regardless of if you have been driving for 10 years or 20 years, driving takes a lot of concentration. Unfortunately, as our society becomes more digitized and our cell phone rarely leaves our grasp, traffic violations involving cell phone use have become common.

If you live in Texas and have been charged with distracted driving, consult with an experienced attorney skillful in working in cases that involve distracted driving. 

Distracted Driving Laws in Texas 

Across the United States, 48 states, including Texas, have explicitly banned texting while driving. In Texas, texting and driving is a misdemeanor, which means a conviction will create a criminal record. You may also be subject to a fine of $25 to $99 if it is your first offense. A repeat offender can be fined up to $200. If you text while driving and cause an injury or death, that fine is increased to $4,000, including the possibility of jail time. 

Aside from texting while driving, the following is also illegal in Texas:

• Using your cell phone or other handheld devices while driving in a school zone.

• Being under the age of 18 and using a cell phone or other handheld device while driving.

• Using a cell phone or handheld device while driving via your learner’s permit.

• If you drive a school bus, you are prohibited from using your cell phone if any children are present.

Moreover, cell phone laws in Texas vary from city to city. Unless you are using completely hands-free technology, it is best practice to check local cell phone driving laws if you are visiting a new city. If it is an emergency and you need to call or text, it is best to pull over before you use your cell phone or handheld device. 

Contact an Atascosa County Traffic Violation Attorney

Texting while driving is no laughing matter. If you have been charged with texting and driving, you face a potential criminal record, which can severely affect your life. To pursue the best possible outcome in your case, contact a skillful Jourdanton traffic violations lawyers with BRCK Criminal Defense Attorneys. Call 830-769-1010 for a free consultation.

Sources:

https://www.cdc.gov/transportationsafety/distracted_driving/index.html

https://www.txdot.gov/safety/driving-laws/texting-cellphone-laws.html

https://www.txdot.gov/content/txdotreimagine/us/en/home/safety/traffic-safety-campaigns/distracted-driving.html

https://statutes.capitol.texas.gov/Docs/TN/htm/TN.545.htm#545.4251