Is it illegal to use Google Maps in MS while driving? Here’s what the law says

Have you ever wondered if you could be pulled over in Mississippi for looking at Google Maps on your phone while driving?

Distracted driving laws in more than 30 U.S. states include a hands-free law making it illegal for all drivers to use handheld cellphones while driving — even if you’re using your phone to navigate, according to the Governors Highway Safety Association.

In 2023, more than 3,200 people were killed because of distracted driving in the United States, according to the latest data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

However, Mississippi is not included in the states that have a hands-fee law. So what do distracted driving laws say in the state?

Here’s what you should know.

What distracted driving laws does MS have?

The following distracted driving actions are against the law in Mississippi:

• Texting while driving: Sending, writing and reading texts while operating a motor vehicle is illegal, according to Miss. Code Ann. § 63-33-1
• Using social media while driving: Accessing, reading or posting on social media is also not legal, according to the law.

Legal experts recommend using hands-free devices while driving and setting up navigation ahead of driving.

What happens if you break distracted driving laws in MS?

There are serious consequences for distracted driving in Mississippi. Here are some penalties drivers may face for breaking the law in this way, according to Richard Schwartz & Associates Injury Lawyers:

• Monetary fines starting at $100
• License points reduction or suspension
• Insurance rate hikesLawsuits

Tips to not get distracted while driving

Here are some tips to help keep you focused on the road while driving, according to the Mississippi State Department of Health:

• Don’t make or answer calls while driving, pull over if you have to make a call
• Don’t text or email while driving. If you need to send a message, have a passenger do it for you
• If you anticipate needing to call or text while on your journey, let someone else drive instead

Natalie Demaree

mcclatchy-newsroom

479-616-0125

Natalie Demaree is a service journalism reporter covering Mississippi for McClatchy Media. She holds a master’s in journalism from Columbia Journalism School and a bachelor’s in journalism and political science with a specialization in African and African American Studies from the University of Arkansas.