Distracted Driving Laws in Oregon

1. What is the legal age to have a cell phone while driving in Oregon?


There is no legal age to have a cell phone while driving in Oregon. However, it is illegal to use a cell phone for texting, emailing, web browsing or making any other type of call while driving. Additionally, all drivers under the age of 18 are prohibited from using any type of handheld electronic device while driving.

2. Does Oregon have a law prohibiting texting while driving?


Yes, Oregon does have a law prohibiting texting while driving. It is illegal to use any type of electronic device while driving in Oregon, including texting and emailing.

3. Is it illegal to use a handheld device while driving in Oregon?


Yes, it is illegal to use a handheld electronic device while driving in Oregon. This includes talking on a cell phone, texting, emailing and use of any other application.

4. What are the fines for distracted driving in Oregon?


Oregon has the following penalties for distracted driving:

1st offense: $260 fine and four points against your driving record
2nd offense: $435 fine and six points against your driving record
3rd offense: $1,000 fine and eight points against your driving record.

5. Does Oregon allow hands-free talking on devices while driving?


Yes, Oregon allows hands-free talking on devices while driving. This applies to both cell phones and navigation systems.

6. Does Oregon have a law prohibiting the use of social media while driving?


Yes, Oregon does have a law prohibiting the use of social media while driving. The law prohibits a person from operating a vehicle while using any type of portable electronic device, including but not limited to a telephone, text messaging device, or laptop computer, for the purpose of manually composing, sending, or reading an electronic message. Electronic messages are defined by Oregon Revised Statutes 811.507 as “an electronic communication including, but not limited to, text messages, instant messages, emails and Internet data.”

7. Is it illegal to talk on the phone while driving in Oregon?


Yes, it is illegal to talk on a mobile phone while driving in Oregon, except for hands-free use.

8. Is it illegal to make phone calls while stopped at a red light in Oregon?


Yes, it is illegal to make phone calls while stopped at a red light in Oregon. Oregon law states that it is illegal to use a handheld electronic device while operating a motor vehicle, and a red light is considered to be operating a motor vehicle.

9. Are there any state laws in Oregon requiring hands-free headsets for drivers?


Yes, in Oregon, drivers are required to use hands-free headsets while talking on the phone while driving. This law is in place to reduce the number of distracted driving incidents and to promote safe driving practices.

10. Does Oregon have a law prohibiting the use of cell phones while driving with a learner’s permit?


Yes, Oregon does have a law prohibiting the use of cell phones while driving with a learner’s permit. The law states that no person shall use a mobile communication device while operating a motor vehicle if the person holds a provisional driver’s license or a learner’s permit.

11. Is it legal to use GPS navigation systems while driving in Oregon?


Yes, it is legal to use GPS navigation systems while driving in Oregon.

12. Does Oregon have a law against any type of driver distraction?


Yes, Oregon law prohibits all drivers from distracted driving, including any activities that violate the Oregon Department of Transportation’s definition of distracted driving, such as using a cell phone, texting, eating or drinking while driving.

13. Are there any restrictions on phone use in school zones in Oregon?


Yes. Oregon has a “hands-free law” that requires drivers to use hands-free devices when using a cell phone in school zones. The law also prohibits drivers from sending or receiving text messages while driving in school zones.

14. Does Oregon have an administrative license suspension for distracted driving violations?


Yes, Oregon has an administrative license suspension for distracted driving violations. Under Oregon law, drivers convicted of three distracted driving violations within a 10 year period will have their license suspended for 90 days.

15. Is it illegal to drive without a hands-free device in Oregon?


Yes, it is illegal to drive without a hands-free device in Oregon. According to the Oregon Department of Transportation, all drivers must use hands-free devices to talk on a cell phone while driving.

16. Does Oregon have an underage cellphone law which prohibits those under 18 from talking on their phones or texting while driving?


Yes. As of January 1, 2010, Oregon has a law that prohibits drivers under the age of 18 from using a cell phone or other wireless communication device while operating a motor vehicle. This includes any talking, texting, or any other use of the device.

17. Are there any restrictions on eating and drinking while driving in Oregon?


Yes. According to Oregon law, it is illegal to consume any food, beverage, or alcoholic beverage while operating a motor vehicle. It is also illegal to transport an open container of an alcoholic beverage in the passenger compartment of a vehicle which is located on a public highway or premises open to the public.

18. What is the penalty for distracted driving violations in Oregon?


In Oregon, a distracted driving violation can result in a fine of up to $1000 and up to 5 points on your driving record. If you are found to have caused an accident as a result of your distracted driving, the fines and other penalties can be much higher.

19. Are police officers allowed to pull over drivers for using their cell phones in Oregon?


Yes. As of October 1, 2017, it is illegal for motorists in Oregon to talk, text, or use their cell phones while driving.

20. Does Oregon impose any restrictions on children under 18 using their cell phones in the car?


Yes, Oregon imposes restrictions on children under 18 using their cell phones in the car. Under Oregon law, drivers under the age of 18 are prohibited from using a mobile device while driving, even if the device is hands-free. Additionally, all drivers are prohibited from texting or using a handheld device while driving.