Phone Usage Laws while Driving in California

Phone usage can be found nearly everywhere. The modern cellphone is a powerful tool that can be used for all sorts of things, such as communicating with people via messaging apps, sending emails back and forth, listening to music, taking photos, playing games, and even watching movies. The concept of the phone has evolved far beyond being a way for you to make and receive voice calls.

Although phone usage has become such a big part of people’s lives, there are some areas where you need to be mindful of how you use it.

Do Not Use While Driving

California, much like many other states, has laws that prohibit the use of phones while you are driving. As useful as they are, phones can be incredibly distracting. Even looking down for a few seconds to change a song, read a message, or take a photo can be more than enough time for something bad to happen on the road.

In California, it is illegal for any driver to have a phone in their hand while they are driving. Having a phone in your hand means there is one less hand on the steering wheel. Having a phone in your hand can also tempt you to check it. Another laws prevents drivers under the age of 18 from using a phone, even if it is in a hands-free position. That being said, these general laws only apply to the person who is behind the wheel. All passengers in the car are free to use their phone as they please, as long as it does not distract the driver.

Hands-Free Use

There are some general cases where the average driver is allowed to use their phone like in a hands-free position. A phone mounted in a holder is fine if it is simply being used for navigation purposes or to change between songs. Using your phone for map navigation only requires you to glance over every now and then for updates and it does not require you to even touch it.

Exceptions

Although California has laws in place that prevent drivers from using their phones while they are behind the wheel, there are some exceptions to the rules. The biggest and most obvious situation is when there is an emergency of some sort. If you need to contact the fire department, a hospital, the authorities, or any other party, regarding an emergency situation, you are free to contact them immediately. These sorts of situations require quick responses.

Useful Tools Any Driver Should Keep in Their Car

A lot of things need to come together for you to drive safely. A calm and focused mind can help you respond quickly to your surroundings on the road and be able to safely navigate from one lane to the next. Being in control of your senses and being aware of what is going on around you can make you more prepared for what may happen on the road. Any distractions, such as eating and drinking in the car or doing something on your phone, can cause you to accidentally collide with another car or object. This can lead to legal issues, property damage, and injuries.

One of the most important things to consider when driving a car is comfort. While it may seem like an unnecessary aspect of driving, how comfortable and at ease you feel when you drive can play a role in how alert and aware of your surroundings you are. Keeping certain tools stored in your car at all times can prepare you for situations that may come up.

Tools Box or Set

Carrying some tools or a toolbox in your car is a good idea, specially if you are a handy person. At minimum you should carry some screwdrivers, wrenches, hammers, screws and nails.

First Aid Kit

A first aid kid will often be handy as you never know when a small accident may happen far from home, but some place close to your car, so you can run back to your car to use a bandaid or other first aid items.

Snacks

You never know when you might get hungry on the road. How hungry you are can play a big role in your level of alertness and the sharpness of your critical thinking skills. Protein bars and sugary snacks are not replacements for actual meals but they can give you that little bit of nutrition and sugar your body needs to keep on going.

Duct Tape

This one might seem unnecessary but it can work surprisingly well. Duct tape can help temporarily fix a number of issues, from a loose side mirror to a leaking pipe, for just enough time for you to take your car to a mechanic. If you are ever stranded or far from a shop having something to keep your car together for just a few minutes can be incredibly helpful.