04/04/16   April Is Distracted Driver Month

 

April is distracted driving prevention month. Law enforcement agencies across the state have joined the national “U Drive U Text, U Pay” campaign to stop distracted driving.

Arkansas law prohibits the use of a hand held cell phone for texting, typing, email or accessing the internet while driving, regardless of the driver's age. It's also a “primary offense” law, which means a state trooper, police officer or sheriff's deputy can initiate a traffic stop without observing any other violation.

Drivers should be aware of all state laws related to distracted driving, particularly related to the prohibition of using a hand-held cell phone while traveling through school or highway work zones.

All drivers under the age of 18 are prohibited from using a cell phone while operating a motor vehicle. Drivers 18 to 20 years using a cell phone are required to use a hands-free device.