Distracted Driving Laws in Delaware

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


In Delaware, there is no legal age to have a cell phone while driving. It is illegal for anyone of any age to text or talk on a handheld cell phone while behind the wheel.

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


Yes, Delaware does have a law prohibiting texting while driving. The law states that anyone operating a motor vehicle in Delaware is prohibited from using a hand-held mobile telephone, smart phone, laptop, or other wireless electronic device while operating the vehicle.

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


Yes, it is illegal to use a handheld device while driving in Delaware. Delaware law prohibits drivers from using any type of handheld device, such as a cell phone or tablet, while operating a motor vehicle.

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


The fines for distracted driving in Delaware are as follows:

First offense: $100
Second offense: $200
Third and subsequent offenses: Up to $300

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


Yes, Delaware does allow hands-free talking on devices while driving. Drivers are allowed to use hands-free devices while driving as long as they don’t physically hold the phone in their hand.

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


Yes, Delaware does have a law prohibiting the use of social media while driving. The state’s texting-and-driving law states that “no person shall operate a motor vehicle on a highway while using a hand-held electronic communication device to manually compose, send or read an electronic message while the motor vehicle is in motion.” Violators can face fines of up to $50 and up to 5 points on their driver’s license.

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


Yes, it is illegal to talk on the phone while driving in Delaware. According to Delaware law, drivers are prohibited from using a hand-held cell phone while operating a motor vehicle. There are some exceptions for emergency situations.

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


Yes, it is illegal to make phone calls while stopped at a red light in Delaware. According to Delaware state law, it is illegal to use a handheld electronic communication device while operating a motor vehicle. This includes making phone calls, texting, and other activities that involve the use of a cell phone.

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


Yes, Delaware has a hands-free law that requires all drivers to use a hands-free device when talking on a cell phone while driving, including a headset, Bluetooth device, or other hands-free device. This applies to both handheld and hands-free cell phones. Drivers may not hold a phone in their hand or have it resting on any part of their body. The law also prohibits drivers from typing, sending, or reading text messages while driving.

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


Yes. Delaware does have a law prohibiting the use of cell phones while driving with a learner’s permit. The law states that all drivers under the age of 18 are prohibited from using any type of electronic device, including cell phones, while driving.

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


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

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


Yes, Delaware does have laws against distracted driving. According to the Delaware Department of Transportation, it is illegal for any driver to use a hand-held electronic device while operating a motor vehicle. This includes talking on a cell phone, texting, or using any other type of electronic device while driving.

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


Yes. The state of Delaware enacted a law in 2016 that restricts cell phone use in active school zones. The law prohibits drivers from using any handheld electronic device, including cell phones, while driving in school zones when children are present. There are a few exceptions to this rule, including using a device for emergency calls or navigating with a GPS-enabled device.

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


No, Delaware does not have an administrative license suspension for distracted driving violations. However, the state does have various laws and penalties in place for distracted driving, including fines, points on a driver’s license, and even jail time in certain cases.

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


Yes, it is illegal to drive without a hands-free device in Delaware. Delaware law requires all drivers to use a hands-free device while operating a vehicle.

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


Yes. Delaware passed an underage cellphone law in 2017, which bans anyone under the age of 18 from talking on their phones or texting while driving.

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


Yes, eating and drinking while driving is illegal in Delaware. This includes food and beverages as well as smoking. Drivers must have at least one hand on the steering wheel at all times.

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


The penalty for distracted driving violations in Delaware is up to a $115 fine and/or a 15-day suspension of your driver’s license. Additionally, you may receive 3 points on your driving record.

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


Yes. Delaware has a law that prohibits drivers from talking, texting, or using any other handheld wireless communication device while operating a motor vehicle. Drivers may be stopped and cited for violating this law.

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


Yes, Delaware does impose restrictions on children under 18 using their cell phones in the car. The state prohibits all drivers, regardless of age, from texting while driving. It is also illegal for drivers under 18 to use a hand-held phone to talk while operating a vehicle.