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2018 SESSION

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HB 181 Improper driving; use of handheld communication device while driving vehicle.

Introduced by: Christopher E. Collins | all patrons    ...    notes | add to my profiles | history

SUMMARY AS PASSED HOUSE:

Distracted driving; handheld communications device. Provides that any person who drives a motor vehicle on any highway while using a handheld personal communications device where such use substantially diverts the driver's attention from the operation of the motor vehicle is guilty of distracted driving. Current law prohibits only the reading of an email or text message on the device and manually entering letters or text in the device as a means of communication. The bill provides that distracted driving is punishable as a traffic infraction with a fine of not more than $500 and a mandatory minimum fine of $250 if the violation occurs in a highway work zone.

SUMMARY AS INTRODUCED:

Improper driving; handheld communications device. Provides that any person who drives a vehicle on any highway (i) in a negligent manner but does not endanger the life, limb, or property of another or (ii) while using a handheld personal communications device where such use substantially diverts the driver's attention from the operation of the vehicle is guilty of improper driving. Current law authorizes a court to find a person charged with reckless driving not guilty of reckless driving but guilty of improper driving, which under current law is punishable as a traffic infraction with a fine of not more than $500.