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Is using a cell phone while driving illegal in Louisiana?

Is using a cell phone while driving illegal in Louisiana?

Q: What states have hands-free law?

Many states have enacted hands-free laws, which typically require drivers to use hands-free devices when talking on a cell phone. States like California, New York, and Washington have such laws. However, laws vary by state, so it's essential to check the specific regulations in your state regarding cell phone use while driving.

Q: Can you use your phone while driving in Louisiana?

In Louisiana, novice drivers are not allowed to use their phones while driving. All drivers are prohibited from texting. While experienced drivers can use their phones, it's advisable to use hands-free devices to ensure safety and compliance with the law. Violations can result in fines, especially if they lead to accidents.

Q: Can I drive with my phone in my hand?

In Louisiana, novice drivers cannot hold or use a cell phone while driving. For other drivers, while it's not illegal to hold a phone, texting is prohibited. It's safer and recommended to use hands-free devices to avoid distractions and potential legal issues.

Q: Can I have my phone in my hand while driving?

In Louisiana, novice drivers are not allowed to have their phone in hand while driving. For other drivers, while holding a phone is not explicitly banned, texting is illegal. To minimize distractions and ensure safety, it's best to use hands-free technology.

Full question:

Under the laws of Louisiana, is it an offence to use the cell phone while driving?

Category: Automobiles
Subcategory: Traffic Laws
Date: 04/07/2025
State: Louisiana

Answer:

In Louisiana, novice drivers are prohibited from using a cell phone while driving. Additionally, school bus drivers cannot use a cell phone while operating their vehicles. All drivers are banned from texting while driving.

The enforcement of these laws for novice drivers is secondary, meaning they can only be ticketed if stopped for another violation. If you receive a ticket for violating these laws, the fines are as follows: up to $100 for the first offense and up to $250 for second or subsequent offenses. If you are involved in a traffic accident and are found to be violating this law at the time, your fine will be doubled.

Newly licensed drivers cannot use a cell phone while driving for one year from the date their license is issued. This law does not apply to first-time Louisiana license holders who were legally licensed in another state. Penalties for violations include a fine of up to $100 or sixteen hours of community service for the first offense, and up to a $250 fine for subsequent offenses. As mentioned, fines will be doubled if a violation occurs during a traffic accident.

This content is for informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Legal statutes mentioned reflect the law at the time the content was written and may no longer be current. Always verify the latest version of the law before relying on it.

FAQs

How much is a ticket for being on your phone in Louisiana?

In Louisiana, the fines for using a cell phone while driving vary based on the offense. For novice drivers, the first offense can result in a fine of up to $100, while subsequent offenses can lead to fines of up to $250. If the violation occurs during a traffic accident, the fines are doubled. For school bus drivers, the same penalties apply. It's important to note that novice drivers cannot use their phones for one year after obtaining their license.

What is the new cell phone law in Louisiana?

The new cell phone law in Louisiana prohibits novice drivers from using cell phones while driving and bans all drivers from texting. Novice drivers are those who have had their license for less than a year. School bus drivers are also prohibited from using cell phones while operating their vehicles. Violations can lead to fines, especially if they occur during a traffic accident.