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1. How can I use my phone while driving? (ORD 19-053)

Manipulating a phone or other device’s keypad or keyboard while operating a vehicle can distract a driver’s attention and cause accidents.  Use a bluetooth, speakerphone, or other hands-free system to operate your phone instead.  If you need to type phone numbers, addresses, or other information into your phone, please pull over out of the flow of traffic and make sure your vehicle is safely in a stationary position.

2. Can I use my phone in an emergency? (ORD 19-053)

We recognize that emergencies happen.  In cases of emergency, using your phone or other wireless electronic communication device is permitted if you need to contact law enforcement, a hospital or health-care provider, the fire department, or other similar emergency agencies.

3. Why is this law taking effect?  What about other distractions? (ORD 19-053)

Distracted driving of any kind puts you and others at risk for accidents which can cause injury or even death.  Statistics show that traffic accidents related to distracted driving have increased over the last decade.  Significant penalties for drunk driving have been put in place throughout the country, and stricter penalties for other forms of distracted driving are also expected to become more and more common.

4. If my phone is mounted, on speaker mode, or not in my hand, may I touch it while driving? (ORD 19-053)

Dash-mounted and other cradle systems are commonly used for navigation or hands-free communication.  Single-touch operations such as swiping to answer a call, accepting GPS direction changes, or turning on voice-activation are permitted, provided that the phone is not in your hand.