Distracted Driving Laws in Arkansas

1. What is the legal age to have a cell phone while driving in Arkansas?


In Arkansas, it is illegal to use any handheld device while driving, regardless of age.

2. Does Arkansas have a law prohibiting texting while driving?


Yes, Arkansas has a law prohibiting texting while driving. Text messaging while driving is prohibited for all drivers in Arkansas. It is illegal to use a hand-held phone for any purpose including texting, talking, or web browsing while driving.

3. Is it illegal to use a handheld device while driving in Arkansas?


Yes, it is illegal to use a handheld device while driving in Arkansas.

4. What are the fines for distracted driving in Arkansas?


Fines for distracted driving in Arkansas vary depending on the offense. A first-time offense can result in a fine of up to $250. Subsequent offenses can lead to fines of up to $500. Depending on the severity of the offense, a driver may also face court costs, court-ordered driver training, and license suspension.

5. Does Arkansas allow hands-free talking on devices while driving?


Yes, Arkansas does allow hands-free talking on devices while driving.

6. Does Arkansas have a law prohibiting the use of social media while driving?


Yes, Arkansas does have a law prohibiting the use of social media while driving. The law prohibits drivers from using social media platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram while operating a motor vehicle. The law also applies to text messaging, emailing, and other internet activities.

7. Is it illegal to talk on the phone while driving in Arkansas?


Yes, it is illegal to talk on the phone while driving in Arkansas. The state has a hands-free law that requires drivers to use a hands-free device when using a phone while operating a motor vehicle.

8. Is it illegal to make phone calls while stopped at a red light in Arkansas?


No. There is no law in Arkansas that prohibits or restricts making phone calls while stopped at a red light.

9. Are there any state laws in Arkansas requiring hands-free headsets for drivers?


Yes, there are state laws in Arkansas requiring hands-free headsets for drivers. Arkansas Code § 27-37-302 states that no person shall operate a motor vehicle while using any type of wireless communications device to engage in a call or conversation, unless the device is used with a hands-free accessory.

10. Does Arkansas have a law prohibiting the use of cell phones while driving with a learner’s permit?


Yes, Arkansas does have a law prohibiting the use of cell phones while driving with a learner’s permit. The law states that all drivers, regardless of age, are prohibited from using cell phones while driving if they have a learner’s permit or an intermediate license.

11. Is it legal to use GPS navigation systems while driving in Arkansas?


Yes, it is legal to use GPS navigation systems while driving in Arkansas.

12. Does Arkansas have a law against any type of driver distraction?


Yes, Arkansas has a law prohibiting all forms of driver distraction, including talking or texting on a cell phone, eating, reading, or any other activities that may distract the driver from concentrating on the road.

13. Are there any restrictions on phone use in school zones in Arkansas?


Yes. In Arkansas, it is illegal to use any handheld device, including cell phones, while driving in a school zone.

14. Does Arkansas have an administrative license suspension for distracted driving violations?


No, Arkansas does not have an administrative license suspension for distracted driving violations.

15. Is it illegal to drive without a hands-free device in Arkansas?


Yes, it is illegal to drive without a hands-free device in Arkansas. According to the Arkansas State Highway and Transportation Department website, a law passed in 2017 requires the use of hands-free devices while driving.

16. Does Arkansas have an underage cellphone law which prohibits those under 18 from talking on their phones or texting while driving?


Yes, Arkansas does have a law that prohibits people under 18 from using their cell phones while driving. The law states that it is illegal for anyone under 18 to use a cell phone while driving, except to make an emergency call.

17. Are there any restrictions on eating and drinking while driving in Arkansas?


Yes, Arkansas law prohibits eating and drinking while driving. Drivers are not allowed to consume any type of food or beverage while operating a motor vehicle. This law also applies to passengers in the vehicle.

18. What is the penalty for distracted driving violations in Arkansas?


In Arkansas, texting while driving is a misdemeanor punishable by fines of up to $250 and up to 30 days in jail. Drivers who are caught engaging in distracted driving, including using their cell phone or electronic device while driving, can be issued traffic tickets that carry fines ranging from $25 to $500 depending on the number of offenses.

19. Are police officers allowed to pull over drivers for using their cell phones in Arkansas?


Yes. Arkansas has a law in place that bans using a hand-held cell phone while driving a motor vehicle. This law applies to all drivers, including police officers.

20. Does Arkansas impose any restrictions on children under 18 using their cell phones in the car?


Yes. Arkansas has a law that prohibits drivers under the age of 18 from using cell phones while driving. This includes talking on the phone, texting, and using other apps. Violations of the law are subject to fines and points on the license.