California has strengthened its stance on distracted driving, making it illegal for drivers to hold and use a phone or other wireless communication device while operating a vehicle. The state’s “no-touch” phone law reflects a broader effort to reduce accidents caused by distraction, but it has also created confusion about what is – and isn’t – allowed behind the wheel. For any personal injury law firm, these updates are significant because they directly impact how fault and liability are determined after a crash.
If you were injured in a distracted driving crash, understanding your legal options is essential. Davana Law Firm helps clients across California pursue compensation and navigate complex liability issues tied to evolving traffic laws. If you’re searching for a personal injury or auto accident attorney in Los Angeles, our team is ready to assist. To request your free case evaluation, call (818) 501-1055!
Below, we discuss California’s ‘no-touch’ phone law:
What Is California’s “No-Touch” Phone Law?
California’s hands-free law has evolved to prohibit more than just texting or calling while driving. Under current interpretation, drivers are not allowed to hold or physically interact with their phones while operating a vehicle, even for brief actions.
The law generally prohibits:
- Holding a phone for calls, navigation, or any other purpose
- Texting, scrolling, or interacting with apps while driving
- Checking apps, maps, or notifications (even at stoplights)
However, limited use is still allowed. A driver may use a phone if it is:
- Properly mounted on the dashboard or center console (in a legal position), and
- Activated or deactivated with a single swipe or tap
Hands-free use, such as voice commands or speakerphone, is also permitted. Even so, improper handling or excessive interaction with a device can still lead to a citation.
Is It Illegal to Use a Touchscreen While Driving in California?
Using a vehicle’s touchscreen is not explicitly banned under California’s “no-touch” phone law. The statute specifically targets handheld wireless devices and does not apply to manufacturer-installed systems embedded in the vehicle, meaning factory-installed touchscreens are generally treated differently.
However, that does not mean touchscreen use is risk-free. If a driver becomes distracted while using a touchscreen, such as adjusting navigation, music, or settings, they can still be cited under broader distracted driving or unsafe operation laws.
In personal injury cases, this distinction becomes especially important, as liability may still be tied to negligent behavior rather than the specific device used.
How Does This Law Affect Liability in Car Accident Claims?
California’s stricter approach to phone use has a direct impact on how liability is established after an accident. When a driver violates the “no-touch” law, it can serve as strong evidence of negligence.
In injury claims, this can:
- Help establish fault more clearly
- Strengthen a victim’s claim for compensation
- Increase the likelihood of recovering damages
Even when a built-in touchscreen is involved instead of a phone, distraction can still play a central role in determining liability. Courts and insurers often focus on whether the driver’s attention was diverted from the road, regardless of the source of the distraction.
This is why many people seek guidance from experienced personal injury attorneys to build a strong, well-supported claim grounded in all available evidence, including device use and driver behavior.
What Should Drivers Know Moving Forward?
As vehicle technology continues to evolve, so do the laws aimed at improving public safety. While this law specifically targets handheld wireless devices, the underlying principle remains the same: minimizing distraction. Drivers should understand that distraction, not just the type of device, is often the deciding factor in both traffic violations and personal injury claims. Actions that take attention away from driving—even if technically permitted—can still lead to liability if they contribute to an accident. Understanding this distinction is essential for protecting both your safety and your legal rights.
To practice safe driving, set your notifications to “do not disturb” and set up your navigation and playlist before driving. If you need to use your phone while driving, it is best to pull over to a safe location.
Davana’s Car Accident Attorneys Help Victims of Distracted Driving Accidents
California’s evolving distracted driving laws can complicate injury claims, especially when multiple forms of technology are involved. Working with a trusted personal injury law firm can make a meaningful difference in the outcome of your case. Davana Law Firm represents individuals injured by distracted drivers and is committed to helping clients recover full compensation while navigating complex liability issues. To request your free case evaluation, call (818) 501-1055!
