Florida Class E Knowledge ExamFlorida Road RulesMedium
Which of the following is considered a 'distracted driving' behavior according to Florida law?
- AEating a sandwich while driving on a highway.
- BAdjusting the radio volume while driving.
- CUsing a handheld wireless communications device to text or email.
- DBriefly checking a physical map for directions.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: C. Using a handheld wireless communications device to text or email.
Florida law specifically prohibits texting while driving (sending or receiving electronic messages) with a handheld wireless communication device. This is a primary offense.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Eating is a known distraction but not explicitly illegal under Florida's primary distracted driving laws as texting/emailing is.
- B. While a distraction, adjusting the radio is generally not illegal under specific distracted driving laws unless it leads to careless driving.
- D. Briefly checking a map is generally permissible, though it's still a distraction to minimize.
Florida Texting While Driving Law
Florida law prohibits drivers from manually typing or entering multiple letters, numbers, symbols, or other characters into a wireless communications device to text, email, or instant message.
- It is a primary offense, meaning police can stop you solely for this violation.
- Applies to handheld devices.
- Does not prohibit talking on a phone or using GPS functions.
- Hands-free devices are generally permitted.
Memory trick: Don't text and drive, keep your eyes alive; Florida law says, 'No handheld type, just arrive!'