Texting While Driving Is Now Officially Illegal Under French Law

Doing other things while driving is hugely dangerous, as most people would already know. However, a disturbing number of people still choose to do things like texting while speeding down the road. In France, authorities have become so incensed by the practice that drivers are no longer allowed to hold their phones inside their cars, even when parked.

The ruling was made in the country’s high court, which has huge implications for drivers in the country. Now, even the common practice of pulling over to answer a call or send a message is strictly prohibited. Violators are looking at getting slapped with points on their records and a fine of 135 euros, the French publication Le Figaro reports.

This decision comes on the heels of an uptick in deaths resulting from vehicular accidents and it seems authorities can’t figure out exactly what the reason is. Many are looking at this particular decision as a shot in the dark. Some are even saying that this new ruling could do more harm than good, indicating that drivers should be encouraged to pull over to take calls.

In any case, there are still some exceptions to this particular rule. As Engadget reports, there are designated spots where drivers can park and feel free to use their phones. Those who do end up in an accident or their cars break down are also allowed to use their phones to call or text.

There are also the cases of cars already having built-in call or text via vocal dictation functions, which are not covered by the law. Those who have Bluetooth headphones that allow them to call without taking their hands off the wheel are also safe from fines. It’s really just the people who have to physically hold their phones up to their ears that are targeted by this ruling.