Texting while driving is against the law in Pennsylvania. A driver may not use an interactive wireless communications device in order to send or receive messages while behind the wheel. The law applies to all text-based communications including a range of instant messaging services and apps that may be in use. Our criminal defense attorney team wants to help you understand Pennsylvania’s texting while driving laws.
What is the Pennsylvania texting while driving law?
Pennsylvania’s texting while driving law is Pennsylvania Statute 75 § 3316. The law says that a driver may not write, send or read a wireless communication while a vehicle is in motion. The fine for a violation is $50 but the driver may also have to pay court fines and costs that could add to the total significantly. In addition, texting while driving is a violation of civil negligence laws that may subject a driver to financial liability in the event that they cause an accident. In extreme cases, texting while driving behavior may be charged as reckless driving under Pennsylvania law 75 § 3736.
Is texting while driving a primary offense in Pennsylvania?
Yes, texting while driving is a primary offense in Pennsylvania. That means that law enforcement can stop your vehicle and write you a ticket without any evidence that you have committed any another traffic violation. A primary offense is one that allows a law enforcement officer to initiate a traffic stop and write a ticket based on the offense alone. Even if the only thing wrong that a driver is suspected of doing is texting while driving, they may still receive a ticket under Pennsylvania law.
Is it illegal to talk on the phone while driving in Pennsylvania?
No, it is not illegal to talk on the phone while driving in Pennsylvania. A driver may make or receive a telephone call while they are in control of a motor vehicle. However, a driver may not text and drive.
If I am charged with texting while driving, what are my options?
If you are charged with texting while driving, you have a right to a hearing on the charges. A criminal defense attorney can represent you. A driver who is charged with texting while driving has a right to question the witnesses against them.
A charge of texting while driving is a summary offense. It is the lowest level of legal wrong. However, that does not make your right to a hearing any less important. Whether you are not guilty, trying to address several accusations at once or you merely want to exercise your right to a hearing for whatever reason, your legal rights are important.
Criminal defense attorney for texting while driving
If you are accused of texting while driving, a criminal defense attorney can help you respond to the accusations. An experienced attorney can help you determine the best course of action to respond to the charges. They can help you understand the law, your rights and the entire legal system as you fight accusations of texting while driving.
