Every year in the U.S., almost a half million people are injured or killed in traffic accidents attributed to the combination of texting and driving. Texting while driving is considered a careless act and falls under distracted driving violations in Arkansas.

Arkansas defines distracted driving as drinking, eating, talking on a cell phone, texting, and talking to passengers. It is considered a serious traffic violation, and if you are caught you will get fined.

Arkansas law prohibits texting while driving, regardless of the driver’s age. It is also a “primary offense law”, which means a police officer or sheriff’s deputy can initiate a traffic stop without observing any other violation. Fines can range as high as $100.

For drivers under 18 years of age, all cell phone use is banned. Drivers who are between the ages of 18 and 20 are not allowed to use handheld cellphones while driving through highway work zones or school zones. When it comes to texting and driving, all drivers, no matter what their age is, are banned from texting.

Laws

• Under 18 means no cell phone use at all
• 18 to 20 years of age means no handheld cell phone usage while going through highway or school zones
• All drivers are banned from texting while driving

Fines

• Fines up to $100

Exemptions

• In emergency situations
• Firefighters, law enforcement officers, and emergency medical technicians are exempt

If you’ve been injured in a car accident due to someone texting and driving, please call our experienced personal injury lawyers at 479-439-9269 or email us at office@odomfirm.com.