Even if you’re stopped at a light.
Or your kid is texting you.
Or you just need to check the score.
Or tell someone you’re running late.
No More Excuses.
Beginning July 23, 2017, it will be against the law for Washington drivers to use hand-held cell phones while they are driving. This includes all electronic devices, even tablets, laptops and video games. Tickets for driving while using hand-held electronics will go on your record and be reported to your insurance provider.
No Hand-Held Cell Phone Use While Driving
- Even when stopped in traffic or at a traffic light
- No typing messages or accessing information
- No watching videos or using cameras
You CAN Use Your Device If You Are:
- Hands-free (such as using Bluetooth) and can start use by a single touch or swipe without holding the phone
- Parked or out-of-the-flow of traffic
- Starting your GPS or music before you drive
- Contacting emergency services
Electronics DUI (E-DUI) Ticket Cost
A Driving Under the Influence of Electronics ticket, an E-DUI, is the type of ticket drivers will receive if pulled over for using a hand-held electronic device while driving. The cost for receiving an E-DUI increases with each infraction. All violations will be available to your insurance company.
First E-DUI – $136
Second E-DUI (within 5 years) – $234
Not Included in the Law
- Transit and emergency vehicle drivers are exempt. Drivers of commercial vehicles must follow federal laws.
- Two-way radio, citizens band radio, or amateur radio equipment are not included in the law.
Dangerously Distracted
“Dangerously distracted” means a person who engages in any activity not related to the actual operation of a motor vehicle in a manner that interferes with the safe operation of such motor vehicle on any highway. If the driver does commit a traffic offense because the driver is dangerously distracted, then they are subject to an additional $99 fine.
Why?
- Fatalities from distracted driving increased 32 percent from 2014 to 2015 in Washington.
- 71 percent of distracted drivers engage in the most dangerous distraction, cell phone use behind the wheel
- One out of four crashes involves cell phone use just prior to the crash.