What Are the Texting and Driving Laws in Texas?

Did you know that 1 out of 5 traffic accidents are due to distracted drivers? When you use your smartphone and drive – no matter how good of a driver you think you are – you will be distracted. With more and more drivers getting behind the wheel every day in the Lone Star State, many teen drivers want to know – what are the texting and driving laws in Texas? Learn more about Texas mobile phone laws with this quick guide created by Autos of Dallas.

Can You Text and Drive in the State of Texas?

Gray Car Pulled Over with Police Car Behind

No. It is illegal to text and drive in Texas. The Texas State Legislature passed a law in September 2017 that made the use of smartphones for electronic messaging – text messages and emails – illegal when you are behind the wheel. This law makes it illegal to read or write electronic messages while you are driving your Mercedes-Benz C-Class . In addition to the statewide ban on texting and driving, many local governments in the state have a complete ban on the use of cellphones while driving – make sure to check your local laws. To stay connected behind the wheel of your car, learn how to use the Bluetooth capabilities of innovative infotainment systems like Mercedes-Benz COMAND® , Lexus Enform and BMW iDrive. Here are some more specifics on Texas texting and driving laws.

You cannot send or receive electronic messages in Texas while driving
Texas drivers with a learner’s permit cannot use a cellphone in the car for their first 6 months with a license
Drivers under the age of 18 are not allowed to use wireless devices in the car
School bus drivers cannot use cellphones when children are present
It is illegal for all drivers to text or use cellphones when driving in a school zone

Are you a new driver? Do you want to know more about Texas driving laws? Find answers to the question – what are the texting and driving laws in Texas – with this quick guide created by Autos of Dallas. Visit the Autos of Dallas inventory today to find a pre-owned luxury vehicle that features hands-free Bluetooth capabilities!