Distracted Driving In Tennessee

In Tennessee, it is illegal to drive while distracted.

This of course, means no talking or texting on a cell phone while driving. What many people fail to realize is that this applies to so much more than distractions caused by a cell phone.

This law also applies to people who are applying makeup or eating while driving. Basically, doing anything that takes even a portion of the driver’s attention away from driving could be considered distracted driving.

Getting caught for distracted driving can earn the driver a ticket costing anywhere from $450 to $1,000. This may seem like a pretty steep price for eating while driving, but it is meant to remind people of how important it is to remain focused while driving. One slip up while driving is all it takes to completely ruin someone’s life.

An accident can severely hurt, or even kill, yourself or someone else. Nobody wants that, which is why there are laws against distracted driving. Some of the more important ones are:

Drivers over the age of 18 must use hands free methods to make calls while driving.

Drivers under the age of 18 cannot use any handheld devices while driving, even with hands-free technology.

No texting while driving.

Remember, using a cellphone while driving can be dangerous. That call or text can wait until you have made it to your destination safely. If you have to put make-up or eat something, it is best to just pull over. Remember, safety first.