DID YOU KNOW THAT YOU CAN BE FINED FOR TEXTING WHILE DRIVING?
Effective March 8th Pennsylvania joined many other states banning texting while driving. If caught you will be cited and fined $50.00 plus cost. Here is the vehicle code section;
Vehicle Code 3316
Prohibiting text-based communications. (a) Prohibition.-No driver shall operate a motor vehicle on a highway or traffic way in this Commonwealth while using an interactive wireless communications device to send, read or write a text-based communication while the vehicle is in motion. A person does not send, read, or write a text-based communication when the person reads, selects or enters a telephone number or name in an interactive wireless communication device for the purpose of activating or deactivating a voice communication or a telephone call.
(b) (Reserved).
(c) Seizure.-The provisions of this section shall not be construed as authorizing the seizure or forfeiture of an interactive wireless communications device, unless otherwise provided by law.
(d) Penalty – A person who violates subsection (a) commits a summary offense and shall, upon conviction, be sentenced to pay a fine of $50.
(e) Preemption of local ordinances. – In accordance with section 6101 (relating to applicability and uniformity of title), this section supersedes and preempts all ordinances of any municipality with regard to the use of an interactive wireless communications device by the driver of a motor vehicle.
(f) Definition – As used in this section, the term “text-based communication” means a text message, instant message, electronic mail, or other written communication composed or received on an interactive wireless communications device. 75c3316v(Nov. 9, 2011, P.L. 406, No 98, eff. 120days)
