In case you haven’t heard or read our previous blogs, being caught texting while driving will get you pulled over. The new law marks an upgrade from Florida’s previous stance when it was legally a secondary offense, This meant a driver would’ve had to commit another infraction before they could be cited for using their phone while on the road. As a primary offense, this is no longer the case, which means a driver can be pulled over for texting while driving regardless of whether or not another infraction was committed.
For drivers concerned about how they can use their phones with the new law, is specifically targets texting and typing. This means a driver can still use their phone for GPS purposes, they can still hold the phone up to their ear when talking on the phone and they can also check alerts behind the wheel are still allowed. For those that must send a text for whatever reason, they can legally do so while stopped at a red light. However, the phone must be put away once the light turns green.
Starting in October, Florida is taking things one step further by completely barring the use of a cell phone when driving through a school or construction zone.
For the time being, officers will largely be issuing warnings to drivers that are caught texting while driving, with citations coming in 2020.
This update is brought to you by Miami traffic ticket lawyer Hochman & Goldin, P.A. We can assist you with criminal traffic violations and we are ready to answer your questions and help you fight your ticket. Please call 305-665-1000 to speak with a Miami expungement attorney.
This information is provided for educational or informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice. The information is not provided in the course of an attorney-client relationship and is not intended to substitute for legal advice.