Cell Phone Driving Ban Q&A
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Updated: 10:49 AM Oct 3, 2011
Cell Phone Driving Ban Q&A
The ultimate guide to what you need to know about the new cell phone driving ban in Nevada.
Posted: 9:26 AM Oct 3, 2011
Reporter: Lauren Garber
Email Address: lauren.garber@kolotv.com
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Reno, Nev. - The new cell phone ban is designed to make us safer on the roads, but there are still a lot of questions about what you can do on your phone while you're behind the wheel.

Here's our guide:

Q: What are the basics?
A: You won't be able to make or answer calls, texts, or emails on your cell phone while you're driving, unless you can do it on a hands-free device.

Q: Can I just use my phone's speakerphone.
A: Yes and no. Yes, you can use your phone's speakerphone, but you can't just set your phone on the dashboard, or hold it in your hand to talk. It must be affixed to a phone-holding device in your vehicle.

Q: Can I get pulled over just for talking on my phone?
A: Yes. And if you get pulled over, law enforcement will run your plates, and check to make sure everything is up to date.

Q: Will I get fined?
A: Not yet. Right now, law enforcement will issue verbal warnings to drivers. Fines start on January 1, 2012.

Q: After January 1, how much will it cost me if I get caught?
A: The first offense will cost you $50, the second, $100, and after that, you'll have to pay $250.

Q: If I'm driving and my phone rings, can I just pull over and answer it?
A: Yes and no. If you're on a side street, you can absolutely pull over into an empty parking spot to answer. You are not allowed to pull over into the emergency lane on the freeway.

Q: Are there any exceptions to the law.
A: Paid and volunteer firefighters, emergency medical technicians, ambulance attendant, law enforcement officer, or a person who's reporting a medical emergency, a safety hazard, or criminal activity.

Q: Can I use my GPS while I'm driving?
A: Yes and no. You won't legally be able to type in addresses or touch the screen while you're driving. You will need to pull over to input any information, unless your GPS is voice activated.

Q:What if I'm at a stoplight?
A: Still illegal. You're still behind the wheel, so you'll need to pull over to legally use your phone or GPS.


Latest Comments

Posted by: R Location: RENO on Dec 30, 2011 at 10:44 AM

YES, THE EXCEPTION IS FOR REPORTING AN EMERGENCY - BUT #133: WERE YOU PUT ON HOLD AT DISPATCH? THAT WAS QUITE A LONG REPORT...
Posted by: mike Location: sparks on Oct 3, 2011 at 05:45 PM

Well once again this just doesn't seem to apply to law enforcment. I seen a washoe county sherif today, licence # 133 talking on his phone. I was next to him for about five minuts, from the time we got off the freeway and turned east bound on mill. H etalked on his phone till he turned on to rock. I did my two stops and then got back on mill headed west toward the freeway and the same officer pulled up next to me and what do you know, he is still talking on the phone. This is complete garbage, if we have to use a hands free device then so should they. Theye are not above the law, they should have a greater respect for it. But that just does not seem to be the case any more. We should be able to report them, say take a quick pic and send it in and they get 10x the fines. They know the law, so the penality should be far greater.
Posted by: Kathryn Location: Sparks on Oct 3, 2011 at 05:18 PM

What about the people eating, smoking, looking for addresses, talking to passengers,changing the radio, cd, turning around to do 'something' to or with the kids.......when does it stop??????
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