Driving crackdown in effect June 1 after grace period – violators could get $50 fees for daily habits like checking GPS
DRIVERS have received warnings about a new distracted driver law that could fine motorists up to $100 and add points to their driver’s licenses.
Police in Alabama said a road law crackdown is underway after a one-year grace period ended.
WBRCPolice are warning about recent changes to Alabama’s driving laws[/caption]
GettyDrivers can get an increased fine for operating their GPS[/caption]
It is against the law to hold a cell phone while driving a vehicle in Alabama, according to Birmingham-based Fox affiliate WBRC.
Drivers caught using their phone in specific ways are susceptible to an initial $50 fine and one point added to their driver’s license.
A second offense increases the fine to $100 and two points on a license.
Drivers will receive a $150 and three points on their license if they’re caught three times within two years.
Officials said the law is increasingly important as children are released from school for the summer.
“Any time you’re using your phones, you’re distracted and not paying attention to the road,” Public Information Officer Blake Brown in an interview with FOX affiliate WALA-TV.
“Especially since you have school kids out on summer break in the area.”
The road law is limited to a secondary offense.
The secondary offense means drivers cannot be initially pulled over just for using their phone.
However, the law states that drivers who make another infraction – like swerving, speeding, or misusing their directional – are susceptible to the increased fines.
Officials said drivers must adjust their phone usage while driving a car to avoid the increased penalties.
Vu Quang, a representative for the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency, told WBRC drivers are susceptible to the law, “Even if you’re reading a text and you’re not texting, looking at something on the internet, or even putting in a GPS address.”
The law specifies that drivers are able to use their GPS devices for directions while they are behind the wheel.
However, drivers are no longer allowed to type inputs into navigation systems while operating the vehicle.
The law also carves out use of phones to get emergency services. Drivers may also operate phones if they have successfully stopped the car in a safe area.
Drivers may also use their phone if it is “mounted to the vehicle” in a way that doesn’t “create an unsafe obstruction of theperson’s view of the road,” per the state law.
What defines 'distracted driving'?
Distracted driving claims lives every year nationwide, and it's 100% preventable
However, many drivers assume that distracted driving is limited to using their phone while behind the wheel.
While using a phone to text, call, send emails, scroll through or post to social media, and make or accept video calls is illegal nationwide, other behaviors can be just as distracting – and dangerous.
Other behaviors that distract drivers:
Adjusting the radio or GPS
Applying makeup in visor mirrors
Eating and drinking, as it takes one or both hands from the wheel
Reaching into the backseat to grab personal items
Rummaging through a purse, glove box, or center console
Thankfully, driving distracted can be prevented. Here are some proven tactics to stay focused:
Put your phone in “Do Not Disturb” or “Driving Mode,” as it temporarily pauses notifications, but will push a call or text through if urgent
If distraction is difficult to avoid, put the phone in a safe place, like a purse, glove box, center console, or back seat
If a text message or call needs to be sent or made, pull over and park
Give the phone to a passenger when applicable to send a text or make a call
Be a role model – practicing safe driving in front of impressionable passengers helps pass along safe behaviors
Source: National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, Connecticut Department of Transportation
Distracted driving has become an increasingly violent issue on American roadways in recent years.
“Distracted driving is extremely dangerous,” Sophie Shulman of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration said in a statement.
“Distraction comes in many forms, but it is also preventable.”
The agency reported that overall vehicle fatality numbers decrease in 2023 compared to 2022.
More than 3,300 people were killed while driving distracted in 2022, the agency said.
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