This Might Be The Last Time You Hold Your Phone At Red Lights In Florida | Carscoops

      Florida's proposed hands-free law may allow traffic stops for merely holding a phone.

      A bill in Florida aims to prohibit drivers from holding phones or devices while driving. Police could pull over drivers even if they are not texting or making calls. Repeat offenses may lead to fines and suspension of licenses.

      Distracted driving is a significant global concern. Different states approach the issue differently, and Florida is contemplating a new measure. A newly proposed bill would deem it illegal for drivers to hold any wireless communication device while operating a vehicle, regardless of whether they are actively texting or calling.

      The bill, SB 1152, was introduced this week by Republican Senator Erin Grall and seeks to enhance Florida’s existing hands-free driving regulations. Presently, texting while driving is classified as a primary offense in the state.

      The proposed changes could allow law enforcement to stop a driver for simply holding or placing a phone, tablet, or similar device on their lap while driving.

      **Definition of a Device:**

      The legislation broadly defines "wireless communications devices," encompassing cell phones, tablets, laptops, two-way messaging devices, and electronic gaming devices capable of displaying images or videos.

      In essence, if it has a screen and you are holding it while driving, it may be deemed illegal. If the expanded hands-free law is approved by the Florida Legislature and signed by Governor Ron DeSantis, it would take effect on October 1, 2026.

      Penalties would be particularly severe in school and construction zones. First-time offenders could face a $150 fine and three points on their license. A second violation might result in a $250 fine, while a third offense could incur a $500 fine, four points, and a 90-day license suspension.

      **Mixed Reactions:**

      Responses to the bill are varied, depending on whom you ask. Supporters claim the change is overdue, citing data from the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles showing over 103,500 crashes in 2024 were linked to distracted driving.

      Proponents argue that requiring drivers to go completely hands-free could diminish rear-end collisions, enhance reaction times, and reduce visual distractions from looking down at their laps.

      However, not everyone is in agreement. Some drivers interviewed by WPTV expressed concerns that the bill may be excessive, particularly when stopped at red lights or when responding to urgent family matters.

      **Potential Loophole:**

      It's worth noting that the bill's text does not mention any restrictions regarding mounted devices. For instance, police often utilize laptops mounted on their dashboards. According to the bill, it seems that regular citizens could also mount any device, including phones or tablets, to their dashboards as long as they aren't texting.

      This could offer flexibility for those who wish to change music, listen to audiobooks or podcasts, or accept hands-free calls while driving. Additionally, the bill includes an exception for individuals using their phones to report criminal or suspicious activity.