Walk It Through: The Text At The Wheel
A drift over the line, a signal given late, a phone in hand, and the points that follow.
Reading a message, a driver drifts across the lane line on a four-lane road.
Two things a person in this spot might do. Picking one shows what the law says about it.
One commute. Hands-free calls, a commercial driver's rules, a crash caused by the distraction and the driver improvement course are not worked through here.
A practice walkthrough, not a prediction of how any real one will go. Legal information, not legal advice.
Words this turns on
Terms with a legal meaning that is narrower than the everyday one. Each links to the definition and the authority behind it.
- Handheld wireless communication deviceA phone or similar device. No one may use one to read, manually type or send a written communication while operating a motor vehicle that is in motion.
- Secondary actionEnforcement only alongside another violation. The texting rule is enforced only when the driver has been cited or charged with another traffic violation or offense.
- Employment driving permitA permit that may let a person whose license was revoked for points drive a noncommercial vehicle for work, as may a medical hardship driving permit.
- Motor vehicle homicideUnintentionally causing another's death while operating a motor vehicle in violation of state law or a city ordinance.
- Occupant protection systemA seat belt. No driver may operate a motor vehicle unless the driver and each front seat occupant wear a properly adjusted and fastened occupant protection system.
- Point systemThe schedule of points assessed for each traffic conviction. Twelve or more points within any period of two years revokes the license and requires a driver improvement course.
- Reckless drivingDriving in a manner showing an indifferent or wanton disregard for the safety of persons or property.
- Willful reckless drivingDriving in a manner showing a willful disregard for the safety of persons or property, which on a first conviction brings a driving ban of thirty days to one year.