Trenton, MI asked in Traffic Tickets for Michigan

Q: Is it illegal to look at your phone while you are at a stop light in Michigan?

I think it's only illegal when you are moving, but I want to make sure I read the statute correctly.

(1) Except as otherwise provided in this section, a person shall not read, manually type, or send a text message on a wireless 2-way communication device that is located in the person's hand or in the person's lap, including a wireless telephone used in cellular telephone service or personal communication service, while operating a motor vehicle that is moving on a highway or street in this state. As used in this subsection, a wireless 2-way communication device does not include a global positioning or navigation system that is affixed to the motor vehicle. This subsection does not apply to a person operating a commercial vehicle

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1 Lawyer Answer
Brent T. Geers
Brent T. Geers
Answered
  • Criminal Law Lawyer
  • Grand Rapids, MI
  • Licensed in Michigan

A: You are reading it correctly. Although I would suggest not to tempt a police officer. Getting into a legal dispute about whether you were "moving" is probably not a good use of your time or money to fight.

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