Connecticut's first cell phone law took effect on October 1, 2005. Since the first cell phone laws were introduced, the state has created additional distracted driving laws to restrict a driver’s use of hand-held devices for texting, calling, and more. This is why it is important to avoid using your mobile device while you are driving a vehicle. Below, we explain Connecticut’s mobile device laws to help you avoid getting a ticket.

• A person shall not operate a motor vehicle on any public highway, road, street, avenue, alley, driveway, or parkway while using a hand-held mobile device to make a call. If your mobile device is held anywhere near your face, police will assume you are making a call.
• It is against the law to type, send, or read a text message with a hand-held device while operating a motor vehicle.
• Drivers under the age of 18 can’t use any type of cell phone or mobile device, even when using a hands-free accessory. Drivers of this age can have their license suspended for using a cell phone or mobile device while they are driving.
• School bus drivers can’t use mobile devices or cell phones when carrying passengers. However, they are permitted to use their devices in an emergency.

A mobile device is defined as any hand-held or portable electronic equipment that is capable of providing data communication between two or more people. This includes text messaging devices, paging devices, a personal digital assistant, laptop computers, video game systems, or equipment that can take digital photographs. Audio equipment or any equipment installed in a vehicle that is used for navigation is not illegal.

Do you have more questions about Connecticut's texting and driving / mobile device laws? Contact our attorneys to find out how we can help you today.