Talking on Cell Phone Ticket in California: Can You Get Both?

California has some of the strictest distracted driving laws in the country. Drivers caught using their phones without a hands-free device risk steep fines, while those who run red lights may face even harsher penalties. But what happens if these two scenarios collide? If you are photographed by a red light camera while talking on your phone, could you be hit with two separate tickets—one for the red light violation and one for the cell phone use? Cell Phone Ticket Laws This article explores California’s current cell phone laws, how red light camera enforcement works, and whether both violations can be issued at the same time. It will also highlight fine amounts, enforcement trends, and best practices for drivers who want to stay safe—and avoid costly tickets.

California’s Cell Phone Laws: What Drivers Need to Know

California first banned handheld cell phone use while driving in 2008, and the law has been tightened over the years. As of 2025:

• Handheld phone use while driving is illegal. You may only use your phone in a hands-free manner, such as through Bluetooth, speakerphone, or a mounted device.

• Texting while driving is also prohibited. Even holding the phone in your hand while operating your vehicle can result in a ticket.

• Exceptions exist for emergency calls (911) or if you are operating an authorized emergency vehicle.

Penalties for Cell Phone Tickets in California

The fines have increased significantly:

• First offense: Base fine of $20, but with court fees and surcharges, the total is typically over $150.

• Second and subsequent offenses: Base fine of $50, but the total is usually $250 or more once penalties are added.

• Points on license: Since July 1, 2021, a second offense within 36 months adds one point to your driving record, which can raise insurance premiums.
  The state has steadily increased fines to discourage distracted driving. Today, getting caught on your phone while driving is not just inconvenient—it’s expensive.

How Red Light Cameras Work in California

Red light cameras are automated enforcement systems placed at high-risk intersections. Here’s how they function:

1. Sensors detect movement: When a vehicle enters an intersection after the light has turned red, ground sensors or radar are triggered.

2. Camera captures images: A photo is taken of the license plate, and in most cases, a short video clip is also recorded.

3. Review by law enforcement: Trained officers or contractors review the footage to determine whether a violation occurred.

4. Citation mailed: If approved, a Notice of Violation is mailed to the registered owner of the vehicle within about 5–10 business days.

What Red Light Cameras Do Not Do

Although these systems can take high-resolution images, they are not authorized to enforce cell phone violations in California. The state’s vehicle code section allowing mailed red light citations does not include handheld phone use or texting while driving.

Can You Be Ticketed for Both?

Here’s the crucial answer:

• Red light cameras only issue citations for red light violations. They are not programmed—or legally authorized—to issue tickets for cell phone use.

• You cannot receive a mailed ticket for cell phone use from a red light camera.

• However, if a police officer observes both violations, you can be cited for both. An officer can pull you over and write two separate tickets: one for running the red light and another for using your phone.
  So, if you’re caught only by the automated camera, you will face only the red light ticket, not a cell phone violation. But if an officer witnesses the event, expect double penalties.

Fines and Costs: How Much Could It Add Up To?

• Red light camera ticket: In California, running a red light carries a base fine of $100, but after fees and assessments, the total can exceed $490.

• Cell phone ticket: On top of that, a handheld phone violation can add another $150–$250 depending on your record.
  In total, being stopped by an officer for both violations could cost over $700, not including insurance hikes or traffic school fees.

Enforcement Trends in California

California has expanded both automated enforcement and distracted driving crackdowns:

• Distracted driving crackdowns: CHP (California Highway Patrol) regularly conducts enforcement campaigns in April (“Distracted Driving Awareness Month”) and during high-travel holidays.

• More cameras: Cities like Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Sacramento have expanded or reactivated red light camera programs after years of controversy.

• Technology upgrades: While California does not yet allow cameras to ticket for cell phone use, some states and countries are piloting AI-based cameras that can detect phone use and seat belt compliance.
  This raises the question: could California adopt these advanced systems in the future?

Future Possibility: Cameras Catching Phone Use

Globally, traffic enforcement technology is evolving:

• Australia has rolled out phone detection cameras that automatically ticket drivers caught on their phones.

• The UK and some European countries are piloting similar AI-powered enforcement systems.

• In the U.S., some states (like New York) have discussed adding distracted driving detection technology to existing camera programs.
  California has not approved such use—yet. But given the state’s history of pioneering traffic safety laws, it could be only a matter of time before red light cameras expand their enforcement scope.

Tips to Avoid Costly Tickets

1. Always use hands-free devices: Invest in a dashboard mount or Bluetooth system.

2. Don’t take chances at intersections: Even a brief glance at your phone can coincide with a camera flash.

3. Know your rights: If you get a red light camera ticket, confirm the citation includes clear photos and matches your vehicle.

4. Stay updated: California’s traffic laws evolve regularly. What isn’t ticketable today could be enforced by cameras in the future.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can I get two tickets if I’m on the phone and run a red light? A: Only if a police officer pulls you over. Red light cameras issue citations only for red light violations.
Q: How long does it take to receive a red light camera ticket? A: Typically 5–10 business days.
Q: Does a cell phone ticket add points to my record? A: Yes, after a second offense within 36 months, you will receive one point on your driving record.
Q: Can red light cameras detect texting or phone use? A: No, not in California. They are authorized only to ticket for red light violations.
Q: How much is a cell phone ticket compared to a red light ticket? A: A cell phone ticket costs around $150–$250, while a red light ticket usually costs $490 or more.

Conclusion

If you see the dreaded flash of a red light camera while holding your phone, don’t panic—you won’t be double-ticketed. California law currently restricts automated enforcement to red light violations only. However, if an officer sees you, you could face two separate citations totaling hundreds of dollars. The best way to avoid trouble is simple: obey traffic signals and keep your hands off your phone. With California’s fines and penalties climbing higher each year, distracted driving is just not worth the risk.

Cell Phone Ticket Laws by State | Handheld Phone Ban in 8 States

Ban on Handheld Phone Use in 8 US States   

Distracted driving caused by cell phone use continues to be one of the leading contributors to roadway crashes in the United States. To address this, nearly every state has enacted laws regulating handheld phone use, texting, and restrictions for young drivers. Cell phone ticket fines vary by state, ranging from as little as $20 for a first offense to over $125 for repeat violations, but the long-term costs such as insurance hikes can be much higher. Understanding how the laws differ across states is essential for safe and compliant driving.

States That Ban Handheld Phone Use

As of 2025, 31 states, along with Washington, D.C., Guam, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands, have laws prohibiting all drivers from using handheld cell phones while operating a vehicle. In these jurisdictions, drivers must use hands-free methods such as Bluetooth, speakerphone, or dashboard mounts. Examples of states with handheld bans include:

• California

• Connecticut

• Delaware

• Illinois

• Maryland

• Massachusetts

• New Jersey

• New York

• Oregon

• Washington
  This means that what was once limited to only a handful of states has now expanded nationwide as lawmakers increasingly recognize the risks of distracted driving.

Text Messaging Bans by State

Nearly every U.S. state bans texting while driving. As of 2025, 49 states plus Washington, D.C., Puerto Rico, Guam, and the U.S. Virgin Islands prohibit text messaging for all drivers. Montana remains the only state without a statewide texting ban, although some local jurisdictions have their own restrictions. These laws prohibit drivers from manually composing, sending, or reading text messages, instant messages, and emails while behind the wheel. Some laws also extend to social media activity or app use.

Young Driver Restrictions

In addition to handheld and texting bans, many states impose extra restrictions on younger or novice drivers. Currently, more than 35 states ban all cell phone use—both handheld and hands-free—for drivers under the age of 18 or those with learner’s permits. The goal is to reduce distractions for inexperienced drivers who already face higher crash risks. Violations can lead to fines, points on a license, and in some cases, license suspension.

Enforcement of Cell Phone Laws

How these laws are enforced depends on the state. In most handheld ban states, the law is a primary enforcement law, meaning an officer can stop and cite a driver solely for holding a phone. In states with secondary enforcement, an officer must observe another violation such as speeding before issuing a citation for phone use. While many citations are classified as non-moving violations that may not carry license points, repeat offenses or texting bans often do result in points and higher insurance costs.

Fines and Penalties

Cell phone ticket fines vary depending on the state:

• Low end: $20–$50 for first-time handheld or texting violations in states with lower penalties.

• High end: $100–$150+ for handheld bans in stricter states, with higher fines for repeat offenders.

• Additional costs: Court fees, surcharges, and insurance premium increases can make the real cost of a violation much more expensive than the base fine.
  Some states escalate penalties for repeat violations or add license points, which remain on your record for years.

Fight Cell Phone Tickets 

Drivers may contest citations in court. Common defenses include proving the device was being used in a hands-free manner, showing that the phone activity was related to emergency communication, or challenging the sufficiency of the officer’s observations. While contesting can take time and may require a traffic attorney, avoiding fines and potential insurance hikes can make it worthwhile.

State-by-State Snapshot

• 31 states + D.C. + territories: Ban handheld phone use for all drivers.

• 49 states + D.C. + territories: Ban texting for all drivers (Montana is the only exception).

• 35+ states: Ban all phone use for drivers under 18 or novice drivers.

• 0 states: Completely ban all cell phone use (including hands-free) for all drivers.
  Because laws differ, drivers crossing state lines should be aware that what is legal in one state could be ticketable in another.

Key National Statistics

• 31 states + D.C. + U.S. territories prohibit all drivers from using handheld cell phones (i.e. require hands-free) under many circumstances.

• 49 states + D.C. + territories ban texting for all drivers (the only exception often cited is Montana).

• No state bans all cell phone use (handheld + hands-free) for all drivers.

• 36 states + D.C. prohibit all cellphone use (handheld and hands-free) by novice or teen drivers.

Enforcement, Fines & Penalties

• In states with handheld bans, most are primary enforcement: an officer can pull you over simply for holding the phone.

• Some laws are secondary, meaning another violation must be observed before citing phone use.

• Fines vary widely: $20–$50 for first offenses in mild states, $100–$150+ in stricter states or repeat cases.

• Repeat offenses often carry higher fines, and many states assign points to your driving record or increase insurance premiums.

• Many states impose stricter rules (or total bans) for drivers under age 18 or with learner’s/provisional licensing.

State Comparison Table

State / Jurisdiction	Handheld Ban for All Drivers?	Texting Ban for All Drivers?	Under-18 / Novice Full Ban?	Enforcement Type / Notes
California	Yes	Yes	Yes (no handheld for under-18)	Primary enforcement
New York	Yes	Yes	Yes (tight restrictions for junior drivers)	Primary enforcement
Oregon	Yes	Yes	Yes	Primary enforcement
Washington	Yes	Yes	Yes	Primary enforcement
Connecticut	Yes	Yes	Yes	Primary enforcement
Delaware	Yes	Yes	Yes	Primary enforcement
Maryland	Yes	Yes	Yes	Primary enforcement
New Jersey	Yes	Yes	Yes	Primary enforcement
Illinois	Yes	Yes	Yes (under-19)	Primary enforcement
Massachusetts	Yes	Yes	Yes	Primary enforcement
Nevada	Yes	Yes	Yes	Primary enforcement
New Hampshire	Yes	Yes	Yes	Primary enforcement
…	…	…	…	…
Montana	No	No	Varies / local rules	No statewide texting ban

(This is a partial snapshot. Many more states follow similar patterns. Always verify the current law in the specific state.)

Conclusion

Cell phone laws in the U.S. now cover handheld bans, texting bans, and special restrictions for young drivers—though no state yet prohibits all phone use in every circumstance. The vast majority of states ban texting for all drivers (49 states + D.C.), and a growing number enforce handheld bans under primary enforcement. Fines range from modest to high, and repeated violations or youth infractions may carry points or insurance consequences. Use hands-free methods when possible, restrict all phone use while driving, and stay updated on your state’s law as changes are common.

 

 

Where is it illegal to drive with headphones in ear?

Laws regarding the use of headphones while driving vary by country, state/province, and even local jurisdictions within those areas. 

Ways You Can Multitask on a Road Trip Without Breaking the Law

If you are planning a road trip for the holidays, you might be dreading the long haul.  Furthermore, family road trips can be arduous and mind-numbingly boring. Thankfully, there are ways you can multitask on a road trip to make your drive productive and less monotonous.  While distracted driving is a fast way into a ticket – or worse – getting into an accident, you can still make the most of your trip without breaking the law.  Read further to learn how you can maximize your driving time, while still keeping yourself and your family safe on your next road trip.

Reconnect With Your Family

Some might say the whole objective of a family road trip is to reconnect with your loved ones.  However, family dynamics and differing personalities can often lead to squabbles and bickering.  This doesn’t have to be the case.  These days, kids have their faces stuck in their cell phones and tablets. So instead of having your kids huddled in the back hovered over their screens, why not use your long road trip to get to know them better?  Play travel games, have a sing-a-long, play a round of 21 questions.  You get the idea.  There are tons of opportunities to communicate, relate and reconnect with your family during the long hours on a road trip.

Promote Your Business

If you don’t have it already, get hands-free functionality for your car.  This allows you to make business calls, verbally contribute to business meetings, and take care of work details without dialing or texting on your phone.  This can save a huge amount of time and stress when you return to work after your road trip.  You might also consider advertising your business during your long haul.  Think about applying a wrap design around your car that promotes your business.  This allows you to get the word out about your business as you roll on down the highway.

Catch Up on Recreational Reading

Well, not actual reading. That would not be conducive to safe driving. We’re talking about audiobooks.  Depending upon the car you drive, you might be able to stream the latest mystery novel, thriller, or science fiction audiobooks from your dashboard.  Access apps on your car like Audible and listen to your favorite authors as you wind down the miles to your destination.  If you don’t have, or can’t access audiobook apps in your car, then go to the library.  Most libraries allow you to check out audiobooks you can play on your vehicle’s CD player.

Learn Something New

If recreational reading isn’t your thing, that’s okay.  Consider listening to educational programs on your long road trip.  Economics, world history, theoretical physics, or mythology – the opportunity to increase your knowledge is virtually endless with educational audiobooks.  If you have enough time on the road, you might even be able to start learning a new language!

Brainstorm, Set Goals, and Make Mental Notes

Driving long distances has a strange way of clearing the mind for many people.  Perhaps it’s the constant droning of the road or the lulling motion of driving that sets overactive minds in a more docile disposition.  Whatever the case, driving an extended amount of time is a perfect time to think about your hopes, dreams, and goals.  Set your phone to record and start brainstorming out loud.  You might be surprised at how uplifting and revealing this exercise is.  Furthermore, you can use these mental audio notes for your benefit and implement them when you get to your destination.

Touch Base With Friends and Family

We’re all guilty of getting caught up in daily hustle and bustle.  We get busy and distracted to the point of neglecting the ones we love.  Or, perhaps you have distant relatives who you haven’t seen or heard from in an interminable amount of time. If you can relate, a road trip is a perfect time to activate the hands-free function in your vehicle and call those people you’ve lost touch with.  Pass the hours on the road by calling and reaching out to friends or family members.  They will love hearing from you, and catching up will make the hours of road time pass in a blink of an eye.

The Last Word on Multitasking During a Road Trip

Whatever you do or however you spend your time on your road trip, be sure to follow safety precautions such as wearing seatbelts, abstaining from texting, and following traffic laws.  Having said that, there’s no reason why you can’t enjoy your road trip, while simultaneously getting things done on the road.  So the next time you have a road trip, be safe and stay productive!

Cell Phone Use in Your Car: Consequences and Tips

Your Syndicated Maps apps are indispensable, but remember to use them wisely. More and more states are tightening their laws about driving and cell phones. 

Infractions can impact you in several ways, and we will cover them, including answering the question: “Do cell phone tickets affect insurance?” We’ll also give you several tips on how to resist distracted driving in order to avoid a ticket.

Distracted Driving is Gaining Speed

Would you get behind the wheel wearing a blindfold? That’s essentially what you’re doing if you use your cell phone to read or send a quick text message, dial a number, or answer a call. These tasks only take a few seconds, but you could be driving the length of a football field in those few seconds if you’re driving the speed limit of 55.

Statistics of Cell Phone-Related Driver Distraction

Taking your eyes off the road for a split-second can lead to a catastrophic accident at worst and in many cases put you in trouble with the law leading to higher car insurance rates. The statistics are staggering when it comes to distracted driving. 

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), distracted driving claimed 2,841 lives in 2018. Among those killed were 1,730 drivers, 605 passengers, 400 pedestrians, and 77 bicyclists. That’s nearly 8 people a day. 

The stats are also fearsome when it comes to teens, who were already considered high-risk drivers way before the age of hand-held technology. Six out of 10 teen crashes involve driver distraction, with 12 percent of those using a cell phone, which is why parents need to laser focus on distracted driving when they prepare their teens for driving. 

Despite all of these anxiety-inducing numbers, the warning bells about cell phone-related driver distractions seem to be falling on deaf ears. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) estimated the number of drivers using their cell phones jumped 57 percent from 2014 to 2018.

Punishing Distracted Driving has Gained Traction

We are a multi-tasking, impatient society, and our cell phones have become like an appendage to us. While drivers may not be reacting to distracted driving appropriately, the government is. 

Washington was the first state to pass a texting ban in 2007. Text messaging for all drivers is banned in 48 states, D.C., Puerto Rico, Guam, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. 

Additionally, 22 states, D.C., Puerto Rico, Guam and the U.S. Virgin Islands prohibit all drivers from using handheld cell phones while driving. This is considered a primary enforcement law, meaning the officer may cite a driver for using a handheld cell phone without any other traffic offense taking place. 

As for laws concerning all cell phone use, no state bans all cell phone use for all drivers, but 37 states and D.C. ban all cell phone use by novice drivers. Also, 23 states and D.C. prohibit all cell phone use for school bus drivers. 

Penalties for Cell Phone Use

Penalties for using your cell phone while driving vary from state to state. Expect at least a fine if you’re caught sending a text while driving. If you get ticketed in New York State, you can face a fine of $50-200 if it’s your first time. If it happens to you again, the fine increases. 

Texting while driving is considered a moving traffic violation and may be a criminal misdemeanor in certain jurisdictions.

For example, in Utah, in addition to being fined as much as $750 for your first offense, you will also be penalized 50 points on your driver’s license, and in Utah, 200 points in three years can result in a license suspension.

Insurance and Distracted Driving

Your driving history is one of the factors used to determine your car insurance rate. So when an underwriter finds a ticket for texting while driving on your motor vehicle report, you will most likely see your rate rise when you renew. 

And you will be paying for that lapse in judgment for as long as that ticket stays on your driving record, usually three years but sometimes up to five years. If you keep a spotless record during that time, your insurance rate will go back down.

How Much Distracted Driving Affects Your Insurance

Your rate increase will depend on your state and on your car insurance company. 

Car insurance companies have been mirroring states by raising the penalty for distracted driving. In 2011, it was only a .2 percent increase for those caught texting or talking on a cell phone while driving. By 2018, it skyrocketed to an average of 16 percent. That’s an annual increase of $226. 

And if you think that’s high, there are at least 10 states in which your car insurance rate will increase anywhere from 25 percent or $236 annually up to 41 percent or $425 annually.

How Much an Accident Affects Your Insurance

If your distracted driving causes an accident, you could be in even bigger trouble. 

Be proactive and check with your car insurance company to see if your policy includes accident forgiveness. You will typically have to pay extra for it, and it is not available in all states. So most drivers don’t opt for it, unless they are a high-risk driver.

But if you are a qualified driver with a good record, your insurance company many offer it as a free perk. However, accident forgiveness usually only applies to your first at-fault accident and only if your driving record is otherwise clean. 

Plus, you can’t buy accident forgiveness for an accident you already had. And you won’t be eligible to buy accident forgiveness if you recently caused an accident. If you don’t have accident forgiveness and your driving record isn’t exactly spotless, even a minor accident can raise your rates. 

In states which are not no-fault, there can be a big difference regarding your insurance between if you are at-fault for an accident or not.  If you’re at fault, your premium could rise by up to $138 a month. If there is a dispute with the other party regarding fault and any insurance companies need additional proof, here is how to get traffic video footage. 

If you live in a no-fault state, your the insurance rate is likely to increase because regardless of how minor an accident is or who is at fault, each driver’s insurance company is responsible for covering their client’s claims.

Tips to Help You Put the Phone Down

In addition to general safety tips for driving, here are specific strategies to help you and your family and friends prevent distracted driving. 

Take advantage of your vehicle if it features built-in smartphone compatibility. Car companies are integrating infotainment systems into vehicles to let drivers plugin or wirelessly connect their cell phone to vehicle entertainment and communication systems. 

Many of these newer systems can be controlled using voice commands. Experimental studies have shown drivers take shorter glances away from the road and keep their eyes on the road for a greater proportion of the time when they’re interacting using voice commands overusing their hands. 

Try some phone-blocking apps such as LifeSaver, Samsung’s In-Traffic Reply, DriverMode, and DriveSafe.ly, AT&T Drive Mode, Cellcontrol, and Canary. There are also safety-encouraging apps such as EverDrive, TextNinja, and SafeDrive. 

You can also take advantage of the DND (Do Not Disturb) a feature built into most cell phones.

Other Distracted Driving Prevention Tips

 

●       Prevent temptation by putting your cell phone away. Out of sight, out of mind

●       If you need directions, put the address in your navigation app before you start driving

●       If you need to use your phone as a navigation tool, get a phone mount and position it at eye level

●       Pull off the road safety and stop first, if you must call or text while driving

●       Don’t call or text someone that you know is driving

●       Let the person with you help you navigate, make a call, or send a message

●       Speak up if the driver of your vehicle is distracted

Karen Condor writes and researches for the car insurance comparison site, CarInsuranceComparison.com.

Cameras May Enforce Texting While Driving

The city of Scottsdale, Arizona may take it a step further and is considering using its photo enforced cameras to enforce distracted driver laws. Photo enforcement cameras in Scottsdale are capable of detecting behavior such as text messaging or other “distracted driving” behavior, in addition to capturing speeders and red-light runners. But whether Scottsdale pursues such enforcement as part of a proposed text-messaging and distracted driving law remains to be seen. “We’re able to see people clearly on their cell phones,” said Josh Weiss, spokesman for American Traffic Solutions, the company that operates the fixed cameras and camera-equipped vans on Scottsdale surface streets.

On September 24th, 2008 the Governor of California, Arnold Schwarzenegger signed Senate Bill 28 (SB 28) into law. The new bill “Prohibits a person from driving a motor vehicle while using an electronic wireless communications device to write, send, or read a text-based communication." The new bill will impose a fine of $20 for the first offense and $50 for subsequent offenses starting January 1, 2009. No violation points will be given as a result of the offense and there are exceptions for emergency personnel.

The bill requires motorists to use hands-free devices while talking on a mobile phone when driving a motor vehicle. California motorists using cell phones have been required to use hands-free devices since July, and drivers under age 18 can't use any electronic devices. Seven other states and the District of Columbia ban text-messaging or the use of hand-held phones while driving, according to the National Conference of State Legislatures.

7 Insurance Options When You Get Into An Accident

If a motor vehicle crash inflicts property damage and personal injury, the process of getting compensation for these damages can prove long and complicated. However, the right insurance in advance and understanding your state’s insurance laws can keep you from the application of "Murphy's Accident Law." That is, not everything has to go wrong in recovering for your injuries. Here are seven ways insurance may compensate you. 

Liability Insurance

States that operate under the “fault” system require drivers to carry liability insurance. For coverage to arise, the driver of the covered vehicle must be at “fault.” Actions such as driving while impaired, speeding, failing to keep a proper lookout, running a stop sign or red light, or texting while driving may create liability for the driver and his or her liability policy.

In some cases, liability insurance represents a recovery option even if the careless driver does not own the vehicle. If the driver was a family or household member of the owner, you can hold the owner responsible under the “family purpose doctrine.” This theory applies when the owner makes the vehicle available for use by household members, and the owner had the driver’s permission. Businesses and governmental bodies that own vehicles face vicarious liability if the driver was acting while about the employer’s business.

If your accident occurred in Alabama, the District of Columbia, Maryland, North Carolina, or Virginia, any degree of fault by you completely bars recovery. Other states rely on comparative negligence to reduce recovery based on the percentage of fault of the injured person. 

When Liability Insurance Doesn’t Exist or Is Not Enough

Liability insurance has its limits. To comply with liability insurance mandates means that the drivers only have to obtain a certain minimum coverage. Often, this is not adequate to compensate seriously injured victims of negligence. in some cases, you might have The misfortune of being injured by someone with no insurance.

For these scenarios, uninsured and underinsured coverage provides a solution. These policies go with your own vehicle or vehicles. Uninsured kicks in when the driver that hit you failed to have liability coverage. Underinsured pays for damages not completely satisfied through liability coverage. to get the benefits of this coverage, the driver that hit you must still face responsibility for the crash. As a result, you may have to sue your own insurance company to hold another driver or owner liable. 

The No-Fault Approach to Personal Injuries 

A number of states adopt “no-fault” recovery for injured parties. To effectuate this, car owners in these states must acquire “no-fault” insurance. It pays your medical expenses and a portion of lost wages, lost earning capacity and diminution of your ability to perform household tasks. As such, no-fault insurance pays many (but not all) of the types of damages an injured driver in a tort state would recover. The policies must afford a minimum amount of coverage for the accident and for the injured person.

Notably absent from these personal injury protection policies is coverage for pain and suffering. To collect these non-economic damages, you must pursue a claim against the other driver. In suits for pain and suffering, you must establish the negligence or other fault of the other motorist. Even then, many no-fault states do not allow recovery unless your medical expenses exceed a particular threshold or you suffer a severe injury such as a fracture.

Generally, no-fault insurance on your vehicle does not pay for your own property damage. To be reimbursed for property damage, you must resort to the other driver’s insurance and must show fault. Also, you may go outside the no-fault system to recover damage to your land, buildings or other property damaged by a negligent driver.

Medical Payments Coverage 

Medical payments, or medpay, insurance covers the costs of medical services rendered due to the crash. This coverage comes as part of your automobile insurance but is optional in at-fault states. To access medpay coverage does not require a showing of fault by the other driver or your own lack of fault. 

When You’re On the Job 

Employers must carry workers’ compensation insurance to pay benefits to those injured while performing their job duties. If you’re injured in a car accident that happens in the course of your employment, workers’ compensation insurance covers medical expenses. In addition, you may receive a percentage of your pay based upon the extent that the wreck renders you disabled to work.

Unlike liability insurance, workers’ compensation policies do not pay for pain and suffering or property damage. This is a trade-off for the fact that the right to workers’ compensation does not depend on proving negligence or a violation of the law by the employer. 

Health Insurance 

With your health insurance, you have a source to pay for emergency room visits, hospitalization, rehabilitation and other medical attention necessitated by the wreck. The benefits of the policy apply regardless if you are at fault. Medical providers will request your health insurance policy information and make claims for payments on the policy.

The fact that you have health insurance does not necessarily limit your ability to recover from the at-fault driver. Your damages are not reduced due to the fact that another party, such as a health insurer, paid your medical bills. This “collateral source” rule prevents at-fault drivers from avoiding responsibility for your actions. However, depending on your policy or state, either you or the at-fault driver may have to reimburse the health insurer for amounts it paid on your medical bills. 

When You Crash Into an Object

Collision coverage applies to damages to your vehicle when it hits another vehicle or object. Accordingly, impacts with buildings, telephone or electric poles, walls, and trees trigger collision coverage. You need not establish the fault of the other driver, and you get the benefit of collision coverage even if you’re the at-fault driver.

The collision part of the policy pays the cost of repairs or if your vehicle is deemed a “total loss, the value of the vehicle immediately before the crash. Most policies have a deductible, which represents an amount you must pay out-of-pocket. Many collision policies include allowances for the rental value.

If your wreck involves only damage to the vehicle, you may want to consider filing under your collision coverage rather than the at-fault driver. The former alternative is more apt to address your urgent or prompt need for transportation. Since fault does not factor into collision insurance, the adjuster concentrates on the extent of damage, the cost of repairs, or the value of the vehicle. You are not awaiting someone’s determination of liability for the crash. Your insurance company may sue the at-fault driver to recover what you were paid. In such an event, you may be reimbursed for your deductible.

6 Tips to Prepare Your Teen Child for Driving

Raising and understanding a teenager is one of the biggest challenges for parents nowadays. When your child reaches adolescence age, he goes through a lot of changes. This is the age when he meets his first love. Moreover, this is also the period when he will establish and end relationships, loudly expressing his emotions and opinions. Furthermore, one of the biggest dreams of a child, when he becomes a teenager, is taking the driver’s license and start driving. Having his own car and driving to and from different places gives teens the independence they are looking for. However, this is a period which brings a lot of concerns to parents. It is very important that your teen learns how to drive both for his safety but also for you as his parent. So, if you don’t know how to prepare your teen child for driving, keep reading this article and learn how to do it.

1. Set clear rules

You should set-up some clear rules and boundaries with your teen child before he starts the driving lessons. As this is a very serious situation, you should create a sort of contract with your child where you display each party’s obligations and benefits. For example, you can establish whether your child is allowed to take his friends with the car or travel during the night. What is more, you should check with the local authorities whether there are specific restrictions that apply to teen drivers. In addition, you should be very open with your son or daughter and clearly explain your expectations, detailing also the consequences that might appear in case he breaks the rules.

2. Practice makes it better

Driving is not something which should be treated with superficiality and your teen child should know this very well. Even though everything goes very well during the driving lessons, he will need hours of practice to master this skill. On the other hand, you should also show your child that you trust him. You can take an active role in teaching your child the tips and tricks you use while you are on the road and don’t overreact when he makes mistakes while driving. Your child should feel relax while driving with you on his side. In addition, you should carefully choose the driving school based on their experience in working with teens and availability to offer driving lessons on various types of road and diverse driving conditions.

3. Stress the importance of safe & prepared driving

Safety should be your teen child’s first priority. Therefore, you should stress how important it is to wear seatbelts because it's the law, and its a matter of life and death.  Know where the hazardous intersections are located and try to avoid them.  Explain to your child how easily he can be distracted by electronic devices while driving. For example, you can ask him to turn his phone off so that he won’t be tempted to answer phone calls or text messages. The marketing manager of one of the most popular college writing services recommends that parents should take their children to behind-the-wheels lessons regularly and help them learn from their mistakes.

4. Driving while tired can be extremely dangerous

Fatigue is one of the major causes of car accidents. Sometimes, it is even more dangerous than a drunk driver. Whenever your teen child goes out with the car, you should carefully check if he is well-rested, isn’t upset, and doesn’t have any distractions around him which could put him in danger. Moreover, you should establish together with him a maximum hour when he is allowed to drive at night. Whenever he passes this hour, he should either come at home immediately or stop in the city where he is and get a room to rest. This will help your teen child stay disciplined and follow healthy sleeping habits which will help him react faster when they encounter unusual situations on the road.

5. Give your teen driver a reliable vehicle

Even though your teen child has the necessary skills and makes you trust his abilities, you should also put some efforts from your side. Before giving your teen child a luxurious car that will offer him the necessary comfort, you should first think of his safety. Therefore, when you choose the car for your child, you should check if it is in good condition and works perfectly. Furthermore, you should also teach your teen child how to operate the mirrors, safety systems, knobs, seat, and other car features which can keep him safe.

6. Track the progress

Teaching your teen child how to stay safe on the road is just the beginning. This doesn’t mean that once he learns how to drive, your work and responsibility is done. You should be permanently available to discuss any issues that he has on the road. For example, you can have a regular meeting weekly where you can discuss the situations he encountered while driving and give him advice on how to handle that situation the next time. Furthermore, you can travel with him as the passenger during the first drives and encourage him that he does a great job. Finally, you should set a balance between being over-protective and acting as a responsible parent. You can use several devices to track his speed on the road or check where he goes. However, you should use them only if your child feels comfortable with him and you have a prior discussion about this topic.

It is very important that your child learns to drive on warm weather and in a calm environment. He doesn’t need stress and pressure during driving lessons so that he can stay focused on the road and learn all the tips and tricks presented by the trainer. As a parent, you should put all your efforts into providing your car a safe car and advise him whenever he encounters an uncommon situation.

How Mobile Speed Cameras Are Catching Drivers Using Their Phones

When drivers first learned that they could no longer use their mobiles at the wheel, it would be fair to say there was something of an uproar. Many argued that they were no more distracted by their phone than eating, smoking, or having passengers in the car, yet the new law was introduced nonetheless.

In March of this year, there was further controversy when the penalty attached to it was doubled, and now it seems that the police are really starting to crack down. But how are they doing it? They can’t have eyes and ears everywhere, so instead they’re relying on mobile speed cameras to do the hard work for them…

How It Works

Mobile speed cameras are in use across the world. Capable of snapping a shot up to one kilometer away, they’re set up to record a number of driving offenses, not just the speed of passing cars. For those who are unaware of this, it can lead to something of a shock when the attached fine is posted through your door.

The cameras work by flagging up vehicles that may be exceeding the speed limit. Should they track your vehicle, they will record the offense to use as evidence in your prosecution. This means that if you’re on your phone or not wearing a seatbelt at the time, you’ll soon suffer the consequences.

Why Does It Matter? 

If you’re on the side of those who are outraged at the increased fine, you probably think that it’s entirely unfair to track motorists and punish them so severely, but there’s actually a really good reason behind the rule.

According to experts Go Safe, those who spend their time behind the wheel talking, texting, or downloading data onto their phone will be pretty distracted, whether or not they realize it. This means that reaction times are significantly slower should you need to respond to a hazard on the road, making you even more likely to cause an accident than a drunk driver.

By taking part in the worldwide campaign to reduce deaths and serious injuries as a result of driving offenses, it is thus hoped that law-abiding citizens can help to make the roads a safer place for us all. 

Do your part to help: slow your speed, get off your phone, and take a look at this handy blog post from AA Cars to see how you can reduce driving distractions.

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