Cell Phones and Texting: Distracted Driving Laws in Vermont
Vermont defines distracted driving as anything that takes the driver's attention away from the main conversation about driving. This means everything that threatens the safety of others, passengers and drivers. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, every day in the US, nine people die in car accidents involving distracted drivers.
Texting and driving are illegal in Vermont for drivers of all ages. Drivers under the age of 18 are prohibited from using portable electronic devices. Portable electronic devices include: cell phones, music players and laptop computers. Drivers over the age of 18 are prohibited from using portable electronic devices while driving. Drivers over the age of 18 are allowed to use a speakerphone to make phone calls.
Законодательство
- Texting and driving are illegal for drivers of any age and license status
- Drivers under the age of 18 are prohibited from using portable electronic devices while driving.
- Drivers over the age of 18 are prohibited from using portable electronic devices while driving.
Exceptions
There are several exceptions to these laws.
- Calling or communicating with law enforcement
- Calling or communicating with emergency personnel
In Vermont, a driver can be pulled over for violating any of the above laws without committing any other driving violations as they are considered basic laws.
Fines and penalties
The first violation is $100, with a maximum of $200.
Second and subsequent offenses are $250, with a maximum of $500 if they occurred within a two-year period.
If the violation is committed in the working area, the driver will receive two points in the license for the first violation.
If a second or subsequent offense is committed in the work area, the driver will receive five points in their license.
Texting and driving are illegal in Vermont. In addition, persons under the age of 18 are prohibited from using portable electronic devices while driving. In Vermont, it is recommended that you use a speakerphone for safety reasons and stay within the law.
