Do You Know What the No Touch Law is in Idaho and Washington?

New laws are constantly being passed, and if you are unfamiliar with them, you may break the law without knowing. Many of us break the law without knowing it every day. It can be a little thing like speeding, not fully stopping at a stop sign, or perhaps not realizing you didn't pay for an item at the grocery store. Most laws appear to be broken behind the wheel, and another law behind the wheel might get you into trouble if you aren't aware of it. What is the 'No Touch' law in Idaho and Washington, and have you been violating this law? 

'No Touch' Law in Idaho and Washington

Most drivers in Idaho and Washington know not to text and drive, but did you know there is a law in place for you to not even touch your phone in these states unless it is an emergency? The 'No Touch' law is not new, and while not a law in every state, Idaho and Washington do enforce it. Essentially, the law states that when operating a vehicle, you are not allowed to touch your phone, but are allowed to use hands-free devices. This means no texting, messing with GPS, or physically interacting with your phone. The main exception is that you are dialing 911 for an emergency or a one-touch call. 

What Happens If You Break the 'No Touch' Law in Idaho or Washington?

It may seem like a strict law, but it ensures safety on the road and encourages drivers to stop looking at and touching their phones when behind the wheel. Violating this law can lead to fines, with each occurrence increasing the amount. After a third violation, the penalty can be a 90-day suspension of your license. This is not a law that only applies in certain counties, but applies throughout the entire state. Interestingly, if you drive through Utah, you would be able to touch your phone while operating the vehicle, but not in Idaho or in Washington. 

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The next time you get behind the wheel, make sure to leave your phone in your pocket, in a cup holder, or on a device where you can see it while driving, without having to touch it. Doing so could lead to a fine that you don't want to pay, and being caught doing it too many times could lead to you walking for a few months or asking for a ride. It is best to keep phones put away for your safety, the safety of others in your vehicle, and the safety of other drivers as well. For more on the 'No Touch' law, make sure to click on one of the links in the paragraphs above.