A California appeals court has ruled that holding a phone for any purpose, including using maps, while driving is illegal. The 6th District Court of Appeal’s decision reinforces the state’s distracted driving law, which prohibits “operating” a mobile phone while driving. This ruling stems from a 2016 law intended to strengthen previous restrictions and encourage drivers to keep their eyes on the road.
The court’s decision reinstated a conviction and $158 fine for Nathaniel Maranwe, a driver who had previously been acquitted by a Superior Court panel. The panel had interpreted the law as prohibiting only active use, such as talking or browsing the internet. However, the appeals court clarified that the law aims to prevent all handheld phone functions while driving.
Presiding Justice Mary Greenwood stated that the law was motivated by safety concerns related to drivers distracted by modern phones, which function as handheld computers. The law allows for phones to be mounted on a windshield and activated by a tap or swipe.
Maranwe, who represented himself, argued that the law’s language was unclear and could lead to inconsistent enforcement. He has not yet decided whether to appeal to the state Supreme Court.
In response to the ruling, Santa Clara County District Attorney Jeff Rosen advised, “Keep your hands on the wheel and your eyes on the road.”
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