Ask a Cop: Can I Text or Talk on a Cell Phone While Stopped at a Red Light?

Is there anything you have ever wanted to know about the Mountain View Police Department? Well, this is your chance to ask.

Whether you have a question about certain laws and how they might affect you, your family or friends, or how to stay safe in certain situations, we want you to ask them. We will run the question(s) and give some answer(s). To submit a question, leave a comment below or email mountainview@patch.com.

Answered by Lt. Greg Oselinsky aka "Greg the Traffic Cop."

Question: Can I Text or Talk on a Cell Phone While Stopped at a Red Light?

Answer: No you may not touch or otherwise hold and use your phone while stopped at a red light. This was decided in 2011 when the California Court of Appeals heard this argument in California vs. Nelson. You must pull off the roadway before you pick up your phone and use it. I like to use a seatbelt as a comparison. If you should be wearing your seatbelt, you cannot hold your phone.

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