Texting While Driving Ticket Lawyers
In the hopes of reducing the number of transit-related deaths throughout the state, texting while driving in Florida is now considered a primary offense. Violators may be issued either a ticket or a warning at the discretion of police officers. Although the law is meant to discourage distracted driving, the specifics of what is and is not allowed, as well as what to do when being pulled over, may not be clear to a significant portion of Florida drivers.
Before you rush to pay a hefty citation bill, consider seeking professional legal counsel to protect your rights. Contact our motorcycle attorneys with 911 Biker Law to get a free case evaluation. Our team of traffic ticket lawyers in Orlando will thoroughly review your case for any potential evidence or legal proceedings that could help you have your ticket dismissed.
Texting & Driving In Florida Laws
Fine Rates & License Points
First-time violators will be fined $30 and have one point taken off their license. From then on, violators will pay $60 per ticket and have three points taken off their license if caught again within 5 years of the first violation.
Device Restrictions
Restrictions to mobile device use vary depending on the area. Within active school and construction zones, all handling of mobile devices is prohibited while behind the wheel of a moving vehicle. This includes texting and driving, talking on the phone, and other actions that involve the use of a mobile device. Outside of these zones, you may only use your device for navigational purposes or in a hands-free manner. For example, you may input an address on a maps application or use voice commands to call, text, and play music. If using a headset piece, we recommend drivers leave one ear free of devices in order to maintain focus on the road.
Risks Of Texting & Driving
As one of the leading causes for motorcycle accidents in Florida, texting while driving poses serious threats to the safety of drivers, passengers, pedestrians, and their families. Many would consider themselves the exception but most drivers simply can’t pay enough attention to both what’s happening on a screen and the road. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), drivers that use mobile phones are four times more likely to be involved in a vehicle accident. This is because it only takes a fraction of a second for a distracted driver to run a red light, ignore traffic signs, or overlook a pedestrian. Don’t compromise your safety for a call or text. If you are unsure of what constitutes distracted driving in Florida, contact 911 Biker Law.
What To Do When Pulled Over
In the event you get pulled over for texting while driving, don’t panic. We recommend you remain calm, avoid answering any unnecessary questions and contact your traffic ticket lawyer right away. In the meantime, do not show your phone to the officer. Under Florida’s traffic laws, police are not allowed to confiscate your mobile device without a warrant. Don’t try to fight a ticket right there and then. Instead, describe to your attorney the incident in detail and leave the negotiating to them.
Traffic Ticket Lawyers In Orlando, FL
Don’t compromise your driver’s record over dismissable citations. Contact our motorcycle attorneys with 911 Biker Law to find out if you can fight the ticket. We can help with all vehicle-related matters requiring legal representation including negotiating with the authorities, defending you in court, and fighting an insurance claim dispute. Don’t get caught off guard by Florida’s new laws. Trust 911 Biker Law to defend you and to keep you up to date on the latest Florida traffic legislation.