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Law of the Month: Law Prohibits Drivers from Using Hand-Held Cell Phones in Work Zones

Law of the Month: Law Prohibits Drivers from Using Hand-Held Cell Phones in Work Zones

With the state’s highway construction season reaching its peak, the Wisconsin State Patrol’s July Law of the Month reminds motorists that a recently-enacted state law prohibits drivers from using a hand-held mobile device in a Wisconsin work zone. Violators face fines of up to $40 for a first offense and up to $100 for subsequent offenses. There is an exception to report an emergency.

“While distracted driving comes in many forms, one thing they all have in common is they’re dangerous,” said Wisconsin State Patrol Superintendent J.D. Lind.  “Drivers need to stay focused on the road at all times and that’s why we strongly encourage people to put away their cell phone any time they’re behind the wheel. Work zones are especially challenging as motorists often encounter narrow lanes, reduced speeds, construction workers and equipment all operating in a relatively confined area.”

Last year, there were over 2,800 crashes in Wisconsin work zones resulting in 1,110 injuries and nine deaths. While workers in construction zones are especially vulnerable, the majority of people injured and killed in work zone crashes are motorists.

The state law banning use of hand-held electronic devices in work zones builds on other efforts to discourage inattentive driving. State law prohibits new drivers with an instruction permit or probationary license from using a cell phone when driving (except to report an emergency). Another state law prohibits texting while driving for all motorists. Federal law makes it illegal for commercial motor vehicle drivers from using hand-held cell phones when behind the wheel.

Last Update: Jul 11, 2017 8:34 am CDT

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