Many people use their phones while driving, risking getting a ticket or causing an accident. If you have this habit, it is convenient that you know How much does a ticket cost for using a cell phone in California? and the possible consequences of this habit.
In this article we will explain how much a ticket costs for using the phone, whether or not it affects your driving record and your driver's license in California, how to pay it and how to check if you have outstanding tickets.
How much should you pay to use your cell phone in California?
According to the California DMV, the fine for talking on a cell phone in that state can cost at least $20 for the first offense, and $50 for a repeat offense. The penalty applies to anyone who drives while holding a wireless device in their hand.
To calculate how much a cell phone ticket costs in California, you must take into account additional charges for arraignment and other state and county fees. They could raise the cost of the fine for using a cell phone to $100, $150 and up to $200.
The rule states that the only accepted way to talk on the phone while driving in the state of California is through a hands-free or Bluetooth device that is built into the vehicle and only if you are over 18 years old.
Continue reading: Price of traffic fines in California
Distracted Driving Offense in California
Driving while talking on the phone is dangerous and illegal and is considered (as is manipulating the radio, putting on makeup, drinking or eating, among others) a distracted driving offense..
The law Assembly Bill No. 47 was passed to encourage safe driving and reduce the rate of car accidents, and establishes that a second offense (if repeated within 36 months after the first) will result in one point on the license.
Additionally, the California Office of Traffic Safety initiated “Put Your Phone Down” campaigns. Just Drive” and “Silence the Distraction” especially for the younger population.
It is known that this audience (16 to 24 years old) is at greater risk from distracted driving. The campaigns emphasize that using any cell phone function (applications, searching for music or watching videos, looking at networks, maps or photos) causes distraction and is illegal.
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Can you fight a cell phone ticket in California?
Yes, mistakes can happen and there are mechanisms to defend yourself if you receive a ticket for using your cell phone in California that you consider unfair.
If you are going to dispute a traffic ticket in California, you must pay the bail amount and know what your options are. Below we explain them to you.
Plead not guilty on the ticket for using the telephone and request an in-person trial
If you consider that you do not deserve the ticket for using the telephone, you could plead “not guilty” and request an in-person hearing in a court designated for these cases. The judge will read the charges and then you will be able to make a statement of your version of the events.
Once this occurs, a trial date will be designated. There are exceptions that you can include in your defense (as long as they are verifiable in court) If you unfairly received a ticket for talking on the phone in California:
- Use the phone while driving to make an emergency call (police, fire or emergency services).
- Talking while driving on private property.
- Make a call while driving an authorized emergency vehicle.
- Using your cell phone while not moving. If you used it while parked.
- Use the phone hands-free.
Plead not guilty to the telephone ticket and request a trial by written declaration
When it is not possible to attend court in person to defend yourself against a cell phone ticket in California, the law offers the possibility of doing so by mail.
To obtain the form you must send an email to the address that appears on the fine for using the cell phone, with a stamped envelope so that the authorities can send you back everything necessary to begin the procedure.
Once you have the form in your hands, you must do the following:
- Write a clear and concise letter explaining your declaration.
- Include all evidence: written affidavit of witnesses, phone call records, and any other evidence that helps strengthen your defense.
- Send all information within the expected deadlinespreferably in a certified mail to be sure that the information reached the court.
- Includes a check with the deposit amount.
After completing all the procedures, you will receive a notification by email with the verdict. If you win, You will receive the deposit money back.
Keep reading: How to check traffic fines in the United States?
Do cell phone tickets appear on your record in California?
If you have a second fine for using your cell phone In a period of 36 months, one point is added to your license and will be seen on your driving record. If you have multiple ticket points for using the phone or another violation, you could end up with a suspended driver's license.
How long does a ticket stay on your record in California?
Most violations designated as “2 points” will remain for 10 years in the registry as of the date of the violation. Convictions for traffic violations of “one point” will be reported for 3 years from the date of the violation.
How do I know if I have a ticket in California?
There are several ways to find out if you have a ticket in California:
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How to pay a traffic ticket in California?
To pay a traffic ticket in California you can use one of these methods: online, by phone, by mail or in person, depending on the violation and the county that applies to you. Check the ticket to see what options are available to you.
If you receive a “mandatory appearance” summons, you will have to appear in court before the judge. If you are unable to pay a ticket in full, contact the DMV Collections Department at 530-623-1208 to make payment arrangements.
You must pay your traffic fine before the due date (found on the ticket) and in this way avoid other additional fines and sanctions.