Washington State has just taken the next step and created E-DUI, a ticket for drivers who use a hand-held cell phone while driving. This also includes tablets, laptops, and video games. If the driver is using any electronic device while driving, the driver may get a ticket. It will go on the driving record and be reported to the insurance company. Carriers will then have to consider how to consider the ticket – like a minor violation, or more serious like a DUI. This takes effect July 23rd.

The parameters are straightforward; a cell phone may not be used while the person is driving, stopped in traffic or at a red light, no using cameras or watching videos, and no typing messages or accessing information. The cell phone can be used if the driver is using a hands-free device and it can be activated by a single touch or swipe without holding the phone. It can also be used if the driver is out of the flow of traffic or is parked, or is starting the GPS or music before beginning the trip, or contacting emergency services. If the driver is going someplace new he needs to type in the address before beginning to drive, likewise pick out the radio station or put in the CD before putting the vehicle in drive.

Penalties are stiff –the first offense is $136 while the second within 5 years is $234 and increases with each infraction. It is also a primary offense, for which the driver may be pulled over even if he was obeying all other traffic laws. The statistics show the dangerousness of driving while using a phone or other technology. One of four crashes involves a cell phone just prior to the crash, and fatalities from distracted driving have increased 32% from 2014 to 2015 in Washington. Secondary offenses include grooming, smoking, eating, or reading if the activity interferes with safe driving and the driver has been pulled over for another offense. It will be interesting to see if other states follow suit.