Can I Get a Ticket for Looking at My Phone at a Red Light in Tennessee?

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The answer is yes!

Police can issue a ticket if you use your phone while stopped at a red light or stop sign. The Hands-Free Law applies whenever you operate a vehicle, even when it isn’t moving, to prevent distracted driving.

Even when your car is stopped at a red light, using your phone can be risky and, in some cases, illegal because it counts as distracted driving. In fact, police can pull you over for careless or distracted driving if they see you on your phone while waiting at a light. You are only considered completely “not driving” when your vehicle is in park and your foot is off the brake.

Moreover, looking at your screen makes it harder to notice what’s happening around you, which can lead to rear-end accidents. Staying focused on the road, even for a moment, greatly reduces this danger.

Distracted Driving in Tennessee: A Quick Look

  • Many Crashes: According to Tennessee Highway Patrol, in 2023, distracted driving caused over 20,000 crashes, which was more than 1 in 10 of all crashes in the state.
  • Who Gets Hurt?: Most of these crashes only damaged property (71%). However, some people were hurt: 17% had possible injuries, 9% had minor injuries, and 2% had serious injuries. Sadly, less than 1% of the crashes were fatal.
  • Most Common Crash Types: The reports show that when a distracted driver caused a crash, it was most often:
    • A rear-end crash (hitting the car in front).
    • An angled crash (hitting a car from the side).
  • Top Distractions: The biggest distractions were:
    • Cell phones (32.5% of the time).
    • Other things inside the car (26.3%).
    • Things outside the car (11.4%).
  • Recent Trends: The number of distracted driving crashes has gone up and down over the last decade, but it did go down a bit in 2023.
  • Where it Happens: These crashes happen all over Tennessee, but they are more common in larger counties. For example, Davidson County had a lot more crashes over the last decade than a smaller county like Hancock.

It’s Not Worth Your Safety, Simply Keep Your Hands on the Wheel and Eyes on the Road

Knowing and following Tennessee’s rules about texting while driving is key to keeping yourself and others safe. By staying aware and making smart choices, you can prevent accidents and avoid expensive fines. Remember, no message or alert is worth the risk. Keep your attention on the road.

If you want extra peace of mind, consider a vehicle with advanced safety features. Visit our dealership to explore options that help you drive safer while staying connected. Together, we can make Tennessee roads safer for everyone.

For More on Tennessee Traffic Laws:

FAQS

Does Tennessee have a Hands-Free Law?
Yes. Tennessee enacted the “Hands-Free Law” (Public Chapter 412) on July 1, 2019. This law makes it illegal for drivers to use a handheld phone or device while driving.

Can I talk on the phone while driving in Tennessee?
Yes, but you must use hands-free equipment. The law forbids drivers from holding a phone with their hand, shoulder, or any part of their body. You can use Bluetooth, a headset, or speaker mode to make or take a call.

Am I allowed to hold my phone while driving in Tennessee?
No. The Hands-Free Law bans drivers from holding a phone while behind the wheel. It also forbids texting, typing messages, watching videos, or recording video clips while driving.

Can the police ticket me for using my phone at a stoplight in Tennessee?
Yes. Police can issue a ticket if you use your phone while stopped at a red light or stop sign. The Hands-Free Law applies whenever you operate a vehicle, even when it isn’t moving, to prevent distracted driving.

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Disclaimer by Beaman Toyota:

Beaman Toyota believes the information and specifications on this website to be correct at the time of publishing.

The details shared in this article are intended solely for general informational purposes and should not be interpreted as guidance on government services, financial matters, or legal issues. We are not government officials, financial consultants, or legal experts, and the information provided does not serve as professional advice from a certified specialist. For personalized recommendations tailored to your specific situation, please consult a licensed professional.