As we noted in the first part of this post, Kentucky missed out on federal funds to help enforce its ban on texting while driving. The application apparently fell short because of the very strict definition of “driving” used in the federal grant program.   In this post, we will lay out more of the specifics of texting bans in Kentucky and associated driving laws.

First of all, it should be noted that Kentucky has a complete prohibition against all cellphone use behind the wheel – not just texting – for both school bus drivers and novice (under 18) drivers.
There is primary enforcement for violations of these prohibitions. Just as with texting while driving, this means police can stop drivers for violations without first observing some other violation not related to a cellphone.

Given the frequency with which most teens text, we should also touch upon Kentucky’s graduated licensing program for new drivers. As in many other states, young drivers in Kentucky must pass through a three-stage process.

In the learner stage, for which the minimum age is 16, the restrictions include a prohibition on night-time driving. At the intermediate stage, the driver is restricted from carrying more than one passenger under the age of 20 (other than family) unless being supervised by a driving instructor.

These are fairly standard driving laws for any state to have. For example, Kentucky does not ban all hand-held cellphone use. But only 12 states do that, so Kentucky has 37 other states for company.

This does not mean, however, that is safe to talk on a cellphone while driving. The National Transportation Safety Board has urged states to prohibit all cellphone use behind the wheel, even on hands-free devices.  Distracted driving including cellphone use while driving continues to be a leading cause of car accidents resulting in injuries in Kentucky.  Texting bans in Kentucky are designed to reduce these numbers and increase safety on our roads.