Traffic Law Cracks Down on Holding Phones, Coffee in WA

Washington state is cracking down on texting and eating at the wheel with a new law that went into effect Sunday. 

The new “Driving Under the Influence of Electronics” law puts stricter restrictions on the use of handheld devices in cars, reports the Seattle Times. Even when stopped at a red light or in standstill traffic, drivers can be ticketed for simply holding their phones. 

The law allows phone usage strictly in emergency situations or with apps that are voice-activated, controlled through dashboards, or mounted for map navigation that requires “minimal use” of fingers. Per USA Today, offenders will be slapped with a $136 fine for first offenses; the penalty increases to $234 for additional offenses within five years. Police will report offenses to insurance companies and they’ll also appear on driving records.

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