Did you know that holding your cell phone in your hands while driving is now illegal in California? As of July 1, 2025, a new no-touch law has taken effect for drivers throughout the state, making it unlawful to hold or touch your cell phone for almost any reason while operating a vehicle.
The new hands-free law in California is designed to reduce distracted driving incidents, making roads safer. If you’ve been injured in a car accident in the Los Angeles area that was caused by a distracted driver, the team of personal injury lawyers at Jacob Emrani is available to speak to you now. We’ll help you win your case.
Background on Distracted Driving in California
Lawmakers first banned cell phone use while driving in 2008 (unless using a hands-free device). The law was updated in 2017 to allow one tap or swipe while using a mounted phone, but it was left ambiguous, leading to drivers claiming they were just looking at a map, not texting, and were therefore not breaking the law. The hands-free law in California removes all ambiguity, confirming that holding a phone for any reason constitutes a violation of the law.
Details of the New California Court Ruling
The Santa Clara County Superior Court issued a ruling prohibiting the use of cell phones for any purpose, including looking at or holding them. That means that you cannot:
- Hold your phone and look at the GPS directions
- Browse the internet or view a video
- Send a text or read text messages
- Scroll through a playlist or music app
- Hold a phone in your hand, even if you’re not using it
This includes all drivers, including commuters, delivery drivers, and rideshare drivers. Exceptions may include emergency personnel acting on official duties and anyone making an emergency call to law enforcement, medical providers, or roadside assistance.
Why the Court Ruled in Favor of Stricter Regulations
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 3,308 people were killed due to distracted driving in 2022, 148 of those people in California. State officials have ruled in favor of stricter regulations to remove any question about what is, and what is not, safe to do while driving to reduce fatalities and catastrophic injuries. Fewer accidents mean safer roads for everybody.
Implications for California Drivers
Law enforcement can pull over California drivers for violating the no-touch rule, even if they have no other infractions. If you’re stopped for distracted driving, the penalties are as follows:
- First offense: The base fine is $20 for a first offense (but after adding in court costs and assessment fees, it will be over $130).
- Subsequent offenses: After your first offense, the fine rises to over $270, and you may have a point added to your DMV record. Accumulating points can cause your insurance rates to increase and may eventually lead to the loss of your license.
Tips To Avoid Violating the Law
The easiest way to avoid violating the new law is to stop all cell phone use while driving and pull over to the side of the road if you have to take a call or look something up. You should also:
- Install a phone mount on the windshield or dashboard of your vehicle, and use it every time you drive.
- Set your destination or music before you start driving.
- Whenever possible, use voice commands, Bluetooth, and other hands-free features.
- Turn on your “Do Not Disturb While Driving” feature to silence notifications.
- Avoid picking up your phone when you’re in the driver’s seat, even if you’re just looking at a map.
How This Ruling Benefits Public Safety
This court ruling aims to keep more eyes on the road and hands on the wheel. The more focused a driver is, the quicker they will be able to respond to unexpected events and road hazards and make better decisions when driving.
Too many people have been seriously injured or even killed because of distracted driving incidents. By increasing punitive actions, such as ticketing drivers who hold their phones, lawmakers aim to enforce safer roadways and help drivers avoid preventable accidents.
Injured by a Distracted Driver? Contact the Law Offices of Jacob Emrani Today
If you have been injured by a careless, distracted driver, call the Law Office of Jacob Emrani today. Injuries caused by distracted driving have long-term impacts on quality of life, finances, and health. Our personal injury law firm is here to help you receive appropriate compensation for your pain and suffering.
Contact our office at (888) 912-7115 to set up your no-cost case evaluation now. We represent clients throughout Southern California, Northern California, and the Inland Empire, helping people receive the justice and financial compensation they deserve.