Washington State has recently implemented a new law aimed at reducing distracted driving by prohibiting the use of personal electronic devices while driving. This legislation reflects the state’s commitment to road safety and marks a significant step in combating the dangers associated with distracted driving.
What the Law Entails
The new law in Washington State makes it illegal to use a personal electronic device while operating a motor vehicle on a public highway. This includes a broad range of devices, not just cell phones, but also laptops, gaming systems, and any other type of two-way messaging devices. The law is comprehensive and prohibits a variety of activities such as composing, sending, reading, viewing, accessing, browsing, transmitting, saving, or retrieving emails, text messages, instant messages, photographs, or other electronic data. Watching videos while driving is also strictly forbidden.
Specifics of the Law
What Is Prohibited?
Drivers are not allowed to hold a device in either hand for activities like texting or browsing. The law is clear: no composing, sending, reading, or viewing of electronic data while holding the device is permitted.