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Nevada bans cell phone usage while driving

  • Published
  • By Tech. Sgt. Jason E. Wilkes
  • Nellis Public Affairs
Nevada's Distracted Driver Law, which bans the majority of cell phone usage while operating a motor vehicle, will go into effect Oct. 1, 2011.

The new law makes it illegal for drivers in the state of Nevada to text, access the internet, instant message or make calls on a cell phone without the use of a hands-free device.

Violating the rules of this new cell phone usage law is a primary offense, meaning police officers will pull over individuals for such infractions. Between Oct. 1, 2011, and Dec. 31, 2011, law enforcement will give warnings to people in violation of this law.

Beginning Jan. 1, 2012, police officers will issue a fine to any driver caught violating this law. The fine can be up to $50 for a first offense, $100 for a second offense within seven years and $250 for a third offense within seven years. Any violation after the third offense could result in the suspension of a person's driving privileges for up to six months. Higher fines will be imposed on drivers who violate the law in traffic control zones, such as school zones. In construction zones, the fine may be doubled and the driver may have twice as many points added to his or her record.

The new law does have exceptions in place for drivers in extreme circumstances. For example, individuals requesting assistance for medical emergencies, criminal activities or any safety hazard may use their phone to dial authorities when there is no time to pull over.

Below are some tips to avoid distractions and the temptation of using a cell phone while driving:

· Turn off the phone or switch it to silent before getting in the vehicle.

· If it is necessary to make a call, pull over to a safe place and park before using the phone.

· If travelling with passengers, have the passengers make and receive calls on the driver's behalf.

· While driving, refrain from eating, reading, smoking or any other potentially distracting activities.

Nevada is the 34th state to ban texting and the 9th state to ban talking on a cell phone while driving. For more information on the new Nevada Distracted Driver Law, visit http://ocj.nv.gov/.

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