Traffic School for a Cell Phone Ticket

| Defensive Driving |

In the digital age, cell phones have become nearly indispensable in our daily lives. They keep us connected to work, family, and friends. However, their use while driving can pose significant safety risks, leading to distracted driving tickets, including cell phone violations. Many drivers wonder if they can attend traffic school to mitigate the effects of a cell phone ticket on their driving record and insurance rates. Let’s dive into what you need to know.

The Basics of a Cell Phone Ticket

First, let’s clarify what constitutes a cell phone ticket. These violations typically involve using a handheld mobile phone while driving, whether for texting, calling, or any other function that distracts from driving. Laws vary by state, but the essence remains the same: distracted driving penalties apply.

Traffic School: An Overview

Traffic school courses, also known as defensive driving courses, are designed to improve your driving skills, knowledge, and behavior on the road. Successfully completing a traffic school course can sometimes result in the dismissal of a ticket, the reduction of points on your driving record, or even a discount on your car insurance.

Can Traffic School Dismiss a Cell Phone Ticket?

The answer is: it depends. Traffic school eligibility for cell phone tickets varies significantly from state to state and sometimes even between jurisdictions within the same state.

Here are some general guidelines:

• • State Laws: Some states allow drivers to take traffic school to dismiss a cell phone ticket, while others do not. For example, California drivers can use traffic school for this purpose once every 18 months, but the rules might be different in Texas or New York.

  • Type of Violation: If your cell phone use is considered a moving violation in your state, traffic school is more likely to be an option for you. However, if it’s categorized differently, you may not have this opportunity.

  • Your Driving Record: In some cases, whether you can go to traffic school for a cell phone ticket may depend on your driving history. Drivers with clean records are more likely to be offered this option.

Steps to Take if You Receive a Cell Phone Ticket

• • Check the Ticket: Sometimes, the ticket itself will indicate whether attending traffic school is an option for dismissing the violation.
  • Contact the Court: If it’s not clear from the ticket, your next step should be to contact the court handling your case. They can provide information on whether traffic school is a viable option for your situation.
  • Research State and Local Laws: Because laws vary so much by location, it’s worth looking into your specific state and even local regulations regarding traffic school eligibility for cell phone tickets.
  • Consider the Long-term Impact: Even if traffic school is an option, consider whether it’s the best choice for you. Traffic school might require time and money, but it could save you from increased insurance rates and points on your driving record.

Can You Take Traffic School for a Cell Phone Ticket?

The possibility of attending traffic school to mitigate the consequences of a cell phone ticket is a complex issue that depends on a variety of factors. If you find yourself in this situation, take the time to research your options thoroughly and make the decision that’s best for your circumstances. Remember, the best way to avoid the hassle altogether is by keeping your phone out of reach while driving, ensuring both your safety and that of others on the road.