Kate-happy-mountain_small
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Are you "driving" when stopped at a red light?

Now that texting while driving is a primary offense in WA (http://bit.ly/9to055), I need to get an answer to a question I've had for a long time: what about texting (etc) at a red light?

When behind the wheel, I don't look at my phone while my car is moving, but I often use my phone to pass the time during a long red light. Is this considered "driving" under the new law?

mynameiskate asked in Whatever over 2 years ago | Report

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  • Barredowl-mouse_small
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    Oh, yes you can. Happened right next to me a couple weeks ago.

    Seattleburns answered in Whatever over 2 years ago | Report
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  • Me_small
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    The law actually says 'operating' not driving. So yes, while stopped at a light you are still operating the the car and can still be ticketed.

    Little Red Ryan Hood answered in Whatever over 2 years ago | Report
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  • 11443802614723fe566385e_small
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    Yes. From my understanding, even sitting the passenger seat of a motor vehicle with the keys in the ignition can qualify as "operating" the motor vehicle. That's why it's a bad idea to take a drunken nap in your car while listening to the radio, let alone while the engine is running.

    Lilting Missive answered in Whatever over 2 years ago | Report
    3 comments by kitschnsync, "Cagey", and goody-goody…
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  • Sacri_ordines_by_charism_small
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    Under the old and new.
    yes, you are operating a vehicle and if the light turns green you're expected to be ready that very second to go.

    In short, you shouldn't be doing anything other than operating your car while operating your car.

    Thankfully cars often come with interesting sound systems and these provide more than enough stimulation for most people: pass that wasteful red light time with an audiobook or a great album...

    or just get a gawddamn handsfree phone.

    Rev.Enant answered in Whatever about 1 year ago | Report
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  • Bauhaus_small
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    I consider sitting in the driver's seat with the motor running driving. You shouldn't be distracted even at a stop light.

    Bauhaus answered in Whatever 6 months ago | Report
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