The new Florida cell phone law strictly prohibits drivers from texting while driving. The law prohibits the use of any handheld device while operating a vehicle, with a few exceptions.
Under this law, drivers are allowed to use their handheld devices to notify the police of an emergency. They may also use their devices while stopped at a red light. Drivers can also check the weather, traffic conditions and use their devices to control the radio. Using the phone as GPS is also allowed.
However, Florida drivers must take into consideration that even though you can use your phone for these things while driving, you still must only use these devices if you can operate the vehicle safely.
Florida GPS Driving and Distracted Driving Laws
Distracted driving is now the leading cause of vehicular accidents in the United States. Driving distracted has surpassed driving under the influence accidents and accidents caused by excessive speeds. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has stated that at any given time in the US, 660,000 drivers are distracted by their cell phone while operating their vehicles. Sadly, this figure also includes commercial vehicles and semi-trucks.
If you are pulled over for distracted driving or involved in a distracted driving accident, it will not matter if you were distracted from using your GPS. Florida law for distracted driving will supersede all other exceptions if you are driving in a dangerous manner.
GPS Windshield Mounting Laws
Many states have laws that prohibit drivers from mounting any type of device on their dashboard or windshield because they feel that this blocks your line of sight. Florida does not have GPS windshield mount laws.
The windshield law in Florida states that you cannot operate a vehicle while the windshield is obstructed. This includes stickers, decals, or other non-transparent items being placed on the windshield. Additionally, Florida law requires that windshield wipers must work to operate a vehicle and that any cracks in the windshield cannot block sight or affect the use of the wipers.
While this law does not specifically state that you cannot mount a GPS device on your windshield, it is important that Florida drivers make every effort to only mount one of these devices in a way that does not block their view of the road and other vehicles.
GPS Dashboard Mount Solution
One of the best solutions for this problem is to purchase a bean bag mount for your dashboard. The bean bag mounts are designed to grip and hold your handheld device in place on the dashboard. This will allow you to keep your phone from blocking your view on the windshield. It will also allow you to easily see the directions and information on the device.
There are other similar dashboard mounts available for your phone that can provide the same benefits. A dashboard mount can ensure that you are in compliance with all laws and can operate your vehicle safely while using this service.
Florida Highway Patrol also recommends that if you are using GPS services in your vehicle and that the weather is bad, there is construction in the area, or the directions are difficult that you pull off the road and review the directions while the vehicle is not operating.
A car operating at 55 mph will move the length of a football field in less than four seconds. If you are staring at your GPS for more than one or two seconds, you are placing yourself and others at risk of an accident, especially under dangerous road conditions.
Have You Been Involved In A Distracted Driving Accident?
If you have been injured in an accident that was caused by a distracted driver, it is essential to speak with a personal injury attorney. Distracted driving laws can be complex issues, and the best way to protect your rights as an injury victim is to have the right legal representation for your case. Contact the Florida car accident attorneys at Landau Law today for a free and confidential consultation.
Florida Car Accident Lawyer
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