New Mexico Bans Texting While Driving

March 6, 2014

March 6, 2014—New Mexico Gov. Susana Martinez recently signed a new law that prohibits text messaging while driving, which will take effect July 1.

New Mexico is the 42nd U.S. state to prohibit texting behind the wheel by all drivers, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). The District of Columbia, Guam and Virgin Islands have also enacted text messaging bans among drivers.

"I applaud Governor Martinez and the New Mexico legislature for sending a clear message that texting while driving will not be tolerated," said U.S. Transportation Secretary Anthony Foxx. "Too many people—whether they were victims of a crash themselves or know someone who was—have suffered pain and loss as a result of texting while driving. No text is worth someone's life."

The NHTSA said New Mexico's law allows for primary enforcement, which means enforcement officers can stop and ticket drivers solely for texting while driving. New Mexico's law is also enforceable while drivers are temporarily stopped on the road due to traffic or traffic lights. Violators will be fined $25 on their first offense, and $50 for subsequent offenses.

"Reducing the dangers of distracted driving requires sound laws, rigorous enforcement and extensive public education," said David Friedman, acting administrator of the NHTSA. "This new law will improve the safety of New Mexico roads for all motorists."

Sponsored Recommendations

Best Body Shop and the 360-Degree-Concept

Spanesi ‘360-Degree-Concept’ Enables Kansas Body Shop to Complete High-Quality Repairs

How Fender Bender Operator of the Year, Morrow Collision Center, Achieves Their Spot-On Measurements

Learn how Fender Bender Operator of the Year, Morrison Collision Center, equipped their new collision facility with “sleek and modern” equipment and tools from Spanesi Americas...

ADAS Applications: What They Are & What They Do

Learn how ADAS utilizes sensors such as radar, sonar, lidar and cameras to perceive the world around the vehicle, and either provide critical information to the driver or take...

Coach Works implements the Spanesi Touch system

Coach Works Uses Spanesi Equipment to Ensure a Safe and Proper Repair for Customers