Louisiana is one of six states that ban handheld cell phones while driving for at least some drivers. Our state is one of 25 states that have a complete or partial ban on text messaging while driving. We blogged earlier this week about the dangers of texting while driving, so it is good to see Louisiana lawmakers making efforts to prevent injuries and fatalities from distracted driving car accidents.
If you are unaware of Louisiana’s laws pertaining to cell phone use while driving, here is a summary:
- There is a handheld ban for drivers with a learner’s permit or intermediate license regardless of age
- There is a ban on all cell phone use (handheld and hands-free) for bus drivers
- There is a ban on all cell phone use (handheld and hands-free) for novice drivers
- There is a ban on texting for all drivers
Texting while driving is a primary offense in Louisiana, which allows law enforcement to pull drivers over for texting even in the absence of another violation.
Currently, no state bans all cell phone use while driving, although the National Transportation Safety Board wants a nationwide ban on cell phones behind the wheel.
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