Cell Phones and Texting: Distracted Driving Laws in Tennessee
The most common form of distraction while driving in the United States today is the use of a mobile phone while driving on the road. In 2010, 3,092 people died in car accidents involving a distracted driver. According to the National Safety Council, one in four traffic accidents is due to people texting or talking on cell phones.
In Tennessee, drivers with a learner's or intermediate driver's license are prohibited from using a cell phone while driving.
Tennessee has also banned people of all ages from texting while driving. This includes reading or typing a text message. However, there are a few exceptions to the texting law that include people in the line of duty.
Exceptions for texting while driving
- State officials
- Campus police officers
- Emergency Medical Technicians
Texting and driving are considered basic law in Tennessee. This means that a law enforcement officer can stop a driver to send a text message, even if they have not committed any other traffic violations.
Fines
- Sending text messages while driving costs $50 plus legal fees, the latter of which must not exceed $10.
- Drivers with learner or intermediate driver's licenses can be fined up to $100.
- New drivers may not be eligible to apply for an intermediate or unlimited driver's license for another 90 days.
In Tennessee, drivers of all ages are prohibited from texting and driving. In addition, novice drivers are not allowed to use a mobile phone while driving. It's a good idea to put your cell phone away when you're on the road to ensure your safety and the safety of those around you.
