FL H0013

Creates the "Florida Ban on Texting While Driving Law" prohibiting drivers from manually typing, entering characters, or reading data on wireless communications devices for nonvoice interpersonal communication including texting, emailing, and instant messaging.

Establishes exceptions for emergency personnel, reporting emergencies to law enforcement, receiving navigation or safety-related messages, using navigation systems, and conducting hands-free communication that does not require manual entry or reading text.

Classifies violations as noncriminal traffic infractions punishable as nonmoving violations, with second or subsequent violations within 5 years treated as moving violations under Chapter 318.

Restricts enforcement to secondary actions only when a driver has been detained for suspected violation of another traffic law.

Assigns 6 points to driver licenses for unlawful wireless device use resulting in a crash, and adds 2 points when violations occur within school safety zones in conjunction with other moving violations.

Takes effect October 1, 2013.