Wisconsin’s Texting & Driving Law
Submitted by Cellcom

 

Governor Jim Doyle signed into a law a bill that bans texting while driving, making Wisconsin the 25th state to outlaw the practice. 

The ban, signed on May 6, will take effect on December 1 of this year. Speaking on a cell phone while behind the wheel remains legal.  Fines for sending or composing a text or e-mail while driving range from $20 to $400, which is the same as inattentive driving. Severity of the fine will depend on the severity of the offense. Some argued the texting ban was not necessary, since it was already covered under the existing inattentive driving law, but the Legislature overwhelmingly passed the bill last month. Texting while driving will be a primary offense, meaning you can be pulled over and cited for this offense alone. 

The law does not cover reading text messages or browsing the Internet on a phone. But according to Governor Doyle, officers will pull over anyone they feel is driving while distracted, whether they're sending a text message or surfing the Internet. 

Michigan’s Governor Jennifer Granholm also signed a texting and driving bill on April 30.  

Wisconsin's texting ban doesn't include emergency responders, those texting in an emergency, or licensed amateur radio operators. 

Other areas in and near Wisconsin have hands-free ordinances that remain in effect and limit mobile phone use in a vehicle. 

·         Marshfield – hands-free ordinance – fine up to $75 

·         Waupaca County – restricted use of mobile phone (hands-free acceptable) – fine up to $75

·         Chicago – hands-free law – $50 fine, $200 if it causes an accident

# # # # #

Cellcom is a proud partner with your association, providing discounted wireless plans and business solutions for all members. Cellcom is a locally owned and operated communications services provider throughout Wisconsin and Michigan, with more than 80 retail and agent locations. For more information on Cellcom’s partnership with your organization, contact Tom Swiecichowski, 920-617-7171 or tjs@cellcom.com.