New Louisiana Law Bans Most Cell Phone Use Behind The Wheel

(KHLA - Lake Charles, Louisiana) - Next month, using a phone while driving in Louisiana will be prohibited unless it is for hands-free talks or navigation.

Earlier this week, Gov. Landry signed House Bill 519 which prohibits using most cell phones and other wireless devices while driving.

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With the exception of voice calls on hands-free systems, which include wrist-worn gadgets like smart watches, and glancing at a hands-free navigation system, the new law forbids using a phone while operating a motor vehicle.

Not all smartphone use while driving is allowed by the hands-free exception. Even when the phone is connected to a remote system, the majority of texting and emailing is still illegal. Unless it's for voice communications or navigation, it's illegal to drive while "accessing, reading, viewing, composing, browsing, transmitting, saving, or retrieving electronic data" from any phone app.

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Using a phone to report traffic accidents or emergencies, or while the car is stopped, is exempt from the restriction. Additionally, it includes exclusions for first responders, emergency officials, and specific professional drivers who utilize radios or other communication devices mounted on their cars.

The new phone distraction law carries a $100 maximum fine, or $250 if the infraction takes place in a school or a road work zone. The new law will go into effect August 1st of this year.