News 6 rides with trooper warning drivers about new texting and driving law
The new texting while driving law went into effect on Monday. Florida’s new distracted driving law makes texting behind the wheel a primary offense, which means if a law enforcement officer sees you on your phone while operating a vehicle, they can pull you over. [RELATED: Police issue reminder about new texting and driving law in Florida | Gov. However, Drach said not all law enforcement agencies are offering the same grace period when it comes to texting while driving. [READ MORE: Here's what happened when Iowa implemented texting and driving law | Winter Park police: 'Don't be a clown.
What you can, can't do with your phone while driving
ORLANDO, Fla. – Florida’s law enforcement officers can pull over drivers suspected of texting and driving starting Monday. Florida’s new distracted driving law makes texting behind the wheel a primary offense, which means if a law enforcement officer sees you on your phone while operating a vehicle they can pull you over. [RELATED: News 6 anchor Matt Austin testifies for distracted driving bill | 5 things to know about Florida's texting and driving bill | Timeline: News 6 Driving Change ]Gov. You will not be penalized for receiving a message while you’re driving or glancing at your phone when you receive one unless you’re in a hands-free zone. Law enforcement would rather you use Bluetooth, but you can still physically answer phone calls on your phone with no penalties unless you’re in a hands-free zone.
Here's how officers will enforce Florida's new texting and driving law
"I’ve been asked this a lot, and my answer is the same just as it is with every other law: very carefully," Trooper Steve said. Trooper Steve explained exactly what behavior would spark the interest of an officer. [ASK TROOPER STEVE: Submit your traffic questions here]"We are looking for that driver who is buried in their phone," he said. [READ: What Florida drivers can and can't do on thier phones]Trooper Steve said observing texting while driving has become pretty obvious. If you have a traffic question for Trooper Steve, submit it here.