California drivers who haven’t turned 18 yet are not allowed to use cellphones while driving.
Officers cannot stop young drivers just because they suspect cellphone use, but if an accident occurs and cellphone use is in question, it can lead to additional charges being filed. Teens (and their parents) are also liable for the collisions they cause, and cellphone use (breaking the law) can be strong evidence proving they were at fault.
(a) This section applies to a person under the age of 18 years.
(b) Notwithstanding Sections 23123 and 23123.5, a person described in subdivision (a) shall not drive a motor vehicle while using a wireless telephone or an electronic wireless communications device, even if equipped with a hands-free device.
Teen Drivers and California Cell Phone Laws
Adult drivers are only allowed to use cellphones in a “hands-free” manner on California roads according to CVC 23123. But minors behind the wheel don’t even have that option open to them.
They are not allowed to use a cellphone or electronic communications device. That goes for mounted cellphones as well. Even functions using voice commands do not allow young drivers to bypass the law.
The thinking is that teen drivers are the most at risk on the road. Their inexperience can make any distraction from the lane ahead a dangerous risk. Teens also make irresponsible decisions and engage in social media more than other age groups. They are prone to make the mistake of texting or posting while behind the wheel.
Drivers under the age of 18 can only use a cellphone in an emergency situation. That might include the following:
- A law enforcement agency (police, CHP, Sheriff’s Department, 911)
- The Fire Department
- A health care provider
- Any emergency services agency
Can my teen Use Navigation? There are no exceptions included in the law to allow teens to use a GPS app like Waze to direct them to a destination. Technically, teens could still be charged for using a cellphone if they employ a navigation app, even through voice control.
See: A full guide to teen driving steps and laws in California.
The Punishment for Teen Drivers Who Use Cellphones
Teen drivers found to have used a cellphone for an illegal purpose would face an infraction. This violation by itself is not considered a crime.
For the infraction, a fine of $20 (plus expensive court fees) would be levied. For repeat offenders, violators would pay $50 (plus expensive court fees).
Of course, other misdemeanor charges and felony charges are possible if a teen’s cellphone use (reckless driving) results in a collision. Felony charges are an option if a teen’s accident leads to a serious injury or a fatality.
Teens might also be liable for the damages caused. This can include any victim’s car repair bills, their medical expenses, and their lost time at work.
Parents Liability: Parents don’t have to be in the car or at the scene of the crash to also bear responsibility. Any parent who signs off for a child to get a Driver’s License can share in the blame in an accident caused by a teen.
When to Contact a Lawyer After a California Car Accident
If a teen driver struck you and the accident leaves you with serious injuries, like broken bones, it’s a good idea to speak with a California Car Accident Lawyer. When recovery bills go higher because of these types of injuries, you can expect a bigger fight from car insurance companies.
A skilled attorney helps you keep the fault on the right driver and then demands the maximum in support so you can fully restore your health and finances back to normal.
Maison Law of California offers a free, no-obligation case consultation for all injured California accident victims.
What Does a Lawyer Cost? If you do need our help, there are no upfront charges. In fact, we aren’t paid unless we win your case for you. Then our fee comes out of the check the insurance company must write for you.