A Guide to Texting and Driving in North Carolina

Whether pulling up directions, changing the radio station, or sending a quick text, we’ve all been distracted in the car. When you are not 100% focused on what you are doing when you are behind the wheel, you can miss important things that are going on around you. Distracted driving occurs when a driver engages in any activity that takes their eyes off the road and their hands off the wheel while driving. It is a serious offense that could have life-threatening consequences for pedestrians, drivers, and other motor vehicles.

In North Carolina, roughly 20% of traffic accidents result from distracted driving, second only to speeding and above drunk driving. Therefore, North Carolina has stipulated laws to prohibit texting and driving, as well as other forms of distracted driving. Some aspects of the law also restrict hands-free phone use, so it is vital to know the specifics of the law. Read on to learn about the distracted driving laws in NC to avoid violating them.

Is texting and driving illegal in NC?

The North Carolina Distracted Driving law covers all activities that distract you while driving as illegal. Therefore, you cannot use your phone to text, call, email, or read messages while driving.

It is crucial to understand the NC laws regarding distracted driving to protect you and your loved ones on the road. It is essential when filing an insurance claim because anyone injured in a distracted driving incident can use that information when filing a claim.

Is using any device while driving prohibited in North Carolina?

As with any law, there are certain exemptions, but these are typically reserved for special circumstances. State laws consider reading or writing text messages and emails illegal while driving a motor vehicle, even during a red light stop.

There are exemptions to this law, such as the following:

Texting or emailing when the car is legally parked or not in motion.
First responders and law enforcers performing their duty.
Navigating your vehicle with a GPS.
Hands-free use of communication and mobile devices.

If you are pulled over for texting while driving, you will receive a fine. Depending on the circumstances of your apprehension, you could face serious charges, such as reckless driving or criminal death charges.

Regarding the last exemption for illegal texting and using phones while driving in North Carolina, you may talk on the phone while driving, except when the driver is under 18 or a new driver. The only time minor drivers are allowed to use a cellphone is when communicating with their parents or guardians, or when in a life-threatening situation.

What are the fines and penalties?

Since texting and driving are illegal in NC, you will be charged a ticket worth $100 plus court fees. There is an additional fine of $25 if the driver is under 18, holds a provisional license, or was using a handheld device while driving.

However, if the violator of this law is a school bus driver, it is considered a Class 2 misdemeanor (rather than a civil infraction). This violation entails a fine of at least $100.

Drivers operating commercial vehicles face stiffer penalties and fines. For example, a truck driver violating the distracted driving law faces federal infractions. If a truck driver is apprehended for this violation twice in three years, their driver’s license could be suspended for 60 days. Meanwhile, a third conviction could result in the revocation of their driver’s license for 120 days.

Ways to Prevent Distracted Driving

Driving is not an easy activity, and there are ways to make it easier on yourself. First, you can designate a co-pilot who is responsible for monitoring the map, checking your phone, responding to messages, and changing the radio station. Or, if you are driving alone, make it a point to stop regularly to stretch your legs, refocus, and check your phone and map. You should also secure any loose items, so nothing falls or spills, distracting you while you are moving. Finally, consider placing your phone on Do Not Disturb to prevent any distracting notifications from popping up while you drive.

Conclusion

The distracted driving laws are no different from those of other states. However, you must learn what applies to NC to ensure you won’t pay fines or be charged for the violation. Distracted driving is a serious risk to yourself and other drivers (and pedestrians).

If you’ve recently had a traffic violation of this nature, Leslie Craft, a North Carolina traffic attorney, can help. Her legal expertise can help you avoid facing stiffer penalties or potential criminal charges, especially if you are not guilty. Knowledge of the law is the first step in staying obedient and avoiding legal trouble. When you work with us, we take on the responsibility and focus on your case, so you can have peace of mind knowing that your ticket is being handled with care and expertise. Please call us today at 252-752-0297.