Although there is no federal (nationwide) law that prohibits texting or using a wireless phone while driving, many states have passed laws that prohibit such activities—and some municipalities (cities, towns) have also passed ordinances that restrict texting, talking, or emailing while driving. For example:

• 25 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, U.S. Virgin Islands, and Guam have banned drivers from hand-held phone use while driving.

• 48 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, U.S. Virgin Islands, and Guam have banned texting while driving for all drivers.

• 37 states and the District of Columbia prohibit all cell phone use by novice drivers.

• 23 states and the District of Columbia prohibit school bus drivers from cell phone use while driving.

For more information on state laws, visit the Governor Highway Safety Association page by copying this link and pasting it into your internet browser: https://www.ghsa.org/state-laws/issues/distracted%20driving

In Kentucky, texting while driving is prohibited for all drivers, as per KRS 189.292, which makes it illegal to write, send, or read text-based communications on a personal communication device while operating a motor vehicle. Additionally, for drivers under 18, Kentucky law (KRS 189.294) prohibits all cell phone use, whether it's handheld or hands-free, except in the case of an emergency. This means that novice drivers are not allowed to use cell phones at all while driving. However, Kentucky does not have a statewide ban on the use of handheld cell phones for all drivers. It's important to note that some cities or towns within Kentucky may have their own ordinances that further restrict cell phone use while driving, so drivers should be aware of local laws as well.