Washington’s new Driving Under the Influence of Electronics (DUIE) Act takes effect on July 23rd.
Texting and holding your cell phone to your ear are already illegal, but the new law specifically forbids all handheld uses of personal electronic devices, including composing and reading any kind of message or data, and taking or viewing photographs – even while at a stop sign or red-light signal.
This law was enacted because there have been a number of accidents – sometimes fatal – caused by people driving while distracted, for example, reading their email.
There are exceptions for drivers contacting emergency services; transit system employees relaying time-sensitive information among themselves and dispatch, drivers of authorized emergency vehicles, and commercial motor vehicle drivers using handheld devices within the scope of their employment in compliance with applicable law.
Handheld devices can also be legally used by a driver who has pulled off the roadway to a spot where the vehicle can safely remain stationary.
Washington drivers can still use a mounted smartphone mounted to use a navigation app, and “minimal use of a finger” is allowed to activate or deactivate an app or device.
DUIE is a primary offense. In other words, a driver can be pulled over just for using a handheld device. The first offense results in a $136 citation. This goes up to $235 for the second citation.
These types of offenses will be reported to insurance companies, so in addition to the ticket cost, you’ll be responsible for increased auto insurance rates.
Unlike use of a handheld electronic device, driving while grooming or eating is a secondary offense, meaning you will not be ticketed unless you’re pulled over for another offense. The ticket for this offense is $30.
Please feel free to contact us if you have any questions about this new law in Washington or about the laws relating to use of handheld devices in your state.
