Kansas State Text Messaging Law

Text messaging has become an epidemic. Everyday states around the country are finding it necessary to pass laws to prevent drivers from texting while behind the wheel of an automobile. In a recent study it was determined that text messaging is now a greater risk and a greater cause of auto fatalities than drunk driving. Because of the rise in auto fatalities due to texting, the state of Kansas passed a law in 2011 to punish drivers who choose to text while they are driving. Here are a few highlights from that law:

Cell phone use 

There is no handheld cell phone prohibition for drivers except that novice drivers in Kansas – drivers with a learner’s permit or intermediate license holders – are prohibited from using cell phones while driving.

Texting laws

All drivers are prohibited from texting while driving. Texting refers to the use of a wireless communication device. This includes devices that provide voice or data communication between two or more parties, including, but not limited to, a mobile or cellular phone, a text messaging device, a personal digital assistant that sends or receives messages, an audio-video player that sends or receives messages, or a laptop computer.

Drivers may not write, send, or read written communication, which means they may not use a wireless communication device to manually type, send, or read a written communication, including, but not limited to, a text message, instant message, or electronic mail.

Enforcement 

A person who receives a ticket under anti-texting laws will face a fine of $60. Kansas’ novice driver cell phone and texting laws are considered “primary” laws. A primary law means that an officer can pull you over for the offense without having to witness some other violation. That is, the officer sees you texting and issues a citation.

Call a Vehicular Injury Attorney | Wall Huntington, Kansas Personal Injury Lawyers

If you have any questions about the text messaging law passed by the state of Kansas, or are in need of legal advice or representation please feel free contact Wall Huntington or call 316-265-6000 or toll-free 1-800-475-4140.