Do You Need to Learn More About the Colorado Texting Law?

Since late 2009, it has been illegal to drive in the state of Colorado while using a cell phone or PDA for texting.  Beyond the new Colorado texting law, drivers under the age of 18 cannot use a cell phone while driving at all, even if they have a speaker phone or headset.  Now that this law has been in effect for over a year, many drivers are concerned about how a cell phone violation may affect their driving records. 

If you have been “snagged” by a police officer for violating the Colorado texting law, here is what you can expect from the violation.  A first time offense will result in a fine of $50 and repeat offenders will pay $100.  Since the law is a “primary traffic offense”, law enforcement has the right to cite any driver who is seen texting while driving, even if they are at a complete stop, and they don’t need to commit any other violation to be pulled over. Depending on the circumstances surrounding the offense, some “texters” may also get points on their license.

Ever since 9-year old Erica Forney was killed by a driver who was distracted by a cell phone, Colorado legislators started pushing for a bill that would come down hard on cell phone use while driving. While they are pleased with the steps that have been taken thus far with the Colorado texting law, legislators were hoping for a more aggressive law; one that would also mandate hands-free devices for all Colorado drivers. 

If you have been charged with causing an accident in Colorado that was caused by texting while driving, you will face serious fines as well as penalties that will impact your driving record.  It could also result in a lawsuit for damages.  If you are looking for help with a violation of Colorado’s texting law, contact the law firm of Clawson & Clawson, LLP.