Your Phone Behind the Wheel
AS 28.35.161 — no reading or typing texts while moving, and a felony if it injures someone
A person commits a crime by driving while reading or typing a text or other non voice message on a phone, computer or similar device in view of the driver while the vehicle is moving, or while a screen in full view of the driver is operating.
Who handles this in Alaska: Alaska Bar Association Lawyer Referral Service; and legal aid programs and the state offices, listed in the Alaska directory.
- A phone used for voice calls or showing who is calling.
- A screen showing only audio controls, vehicle information, navigation, maps, or cameras for maneuvering or watching passengers.
| The driving | The offense |
|---|---|
| The drivingCauses no injury | The offenseA violation |
| The drivingCauses physical injury | The offenseClass C felony |
| The drivingCauses serious physical injury | The offenseClass B felony |
| The drivingCauses a death | The offenseClass A felony |
Installing or altering a screen so the driver can watch it while driving is a class A misdemeanor. A city may regulate cell phone use while driving by its own ordinance as well.
Sources for this section (2)
- AS 28.35.161 — Use of electronic devices while driving; unlawful installation of television, monitor, or similar device
- AS 28.01.017 — Municipal regulation of cellular telephone use
Legal information, not legal advice. Verified as of October 2026. Applying it to a particular situation is the work of a licensed Alaska attorney.