AR SB374

Expands distracted driving law to prohibit drivers from using wireless telecommunications devices to write, send, read text-based communications, or access social networking sites while operating a motor vehicle.

Adds exemptions for drivers performing official duties (law enforcement, firefighters, ambulance drivers, emergency medical technicians), reporting illegal activity, summoning emergency assistance, preventing injury, relaying dispatcher information with permanently affixed devices, using GPS navigation, and healthcare providers communicating with medical facilities.

Allows drivers to read, select, or enter telephone numbers or names in wireless devices for making calls without violation.

Establishes penalties of up to $250 for first offense and up to $500 for subsequent offenses under the general distracted driving law (§ 27-51-1506).

Modifies a separate distracted driving statute (§ 27-51-1607) to issue warning citations for first offenses with no court appearance required, and imposes a $50 fine for second or subsequent offenses.

Doubles fines for violations involving a collision or accident and requires law enforcement to note wireless device use on accident reports.