Read Our ReviewsDrivers in the state of Florida will now need to put their phones down when they are traveling through active work zones, school zones and school crossings. That’s right. The state’s new texting and driving laws have gone into effect. Jupiter, Boca Raton and Port St. Lucie residents have numerous questions on this matter.
A personal injury attorney in Port St. Lucie is able to answer all of them. The new law went into effect on October 1st and encompasses not only cell phones, but also laptops, tablets and any devices that are going to be used for gaming purposes. If workers are visible and present, phones and all such devices need to be put away.
Tickets are not going to be issued until January 1, 2020. This gives drivers all over the state a chance to acclimate themselves to the new rules. A driver is going to be given a warning and the officers are using these next few months as an educational period. The initial violation will set a driver back $30 and there are a host of court fees that must be considered.
The hands-free law does come with certain exceptions that an auto accident attorney in Port St. Lucie will be sure to mention. Drivers may be worried that they are not going to be able to utilize their devices when it comes time to report an emergency. This is not a concern that should worry anyone, though. This is a clear and obvious exception that does not result in any sort of legal issues.
Drivers are also still allowed to utilize their vehicle’s navigational system as well. The new laws are designed to remain sensible. They are not being passed to punish drivers for normal activities that take place during the course of a trip. A driver is not going to have to change their whole life in order to remain in compliance.
This law was certainly a long time coming, and those who have been watching this situation closely are certainly not going to be surprised by what has taken place. In the meantime, any Florida resident who is looking to learn more about the legal ramifications of these laws is more than welcome to contact an experienced personal injury attorney as soon as possible.
In the meantime, those who wish to learn more about the bill are more than welcome to check out this handy guide. Every aspect of the new law is explained, so that there is zero confusion taking place. It is time for Florida residents to make the necessary changes to their driving habits. Otherwise, these violations will become more serious once January 1st rolls around.