§ 27-23-130 — Prohibition against texting - Definition

(a) (1) For purposes of this section, "driving" means operating a commercial motor vehicle with the motor running, including while temporarily stationary because of traffic, a traffic control device, or another momentary delay. (2) For purposes of this section, "driving" does not include operating a commercial motor vehicle with or without the motor running when the driver moves the vehicle to the side of, or off, a highway, as defined in 49 C.F.R. § 390.5 , as in effect on January 1, 2011, and halts in a location in which the vehicle can safely remain stationary. (b) (1) A driver of a commercial motor vehicle shall not engage in texting while driving. (2) However, texting while driving is permissible by a driver of a commercial motor vehicle when necessary to communicate with a law enforcement official or other emergency service. (c) A motor carrier shall not allow or require the motor carrier's drivers to engage in texting while driving. (d) A person who is convicted of violating this section shall be: (1) Guilty of a violation; and (2) Fined not less than twenty-five dollars ($25.00).

Legislative History

Amended by Act 2019, No. 738,§ 2, eff. 7/24/2019. Amended by Act 2013, No. 758,§ 20, eff. 7/8/2014. Acts 2011, No. 352, § 7.