Can you text at a red light in SC? Here’s what state law says
If you see a text message come through while you’re driving, you might be tempted to reply while stopped at a red light.
But could sending that quick text get you fined?
Distracted driving, including texting while on the road, puts motorists at risk. In South Carolina, 5.5% of all 2021 traffic accidents were caused by distracted driving, according to the most recent data from the South Carolina Department of Public Safety. About 2,500 people were injured in these collisions.
Here are the texting rules of the road in South Carolina.
Can SC drivers text at red lights?
If you’re stopped at a red light or stop sign in S.C., you can use your phone as long as you’re not impeding traffic, said Brandon Bolt, South Carolina Highway Patrol master trooper.
That includes reading or sending texts or emails, and looking at things on your phone.
Once the light turns green or a car pulls up behind you, you must stop texting, Bolt continued.
While it is legal to use your phone at a red light, Bolt said, “We ask folks to limit their distractions. Your life isn’t worth risking over what’s going on on that cell phone.”
What are South Carolina texting and driving laws?
It’s against the law to text while driving, according to South Carolina section 56-5-3890, which came into effect in 2014.
The law states, “It is unlawful for a person to use a wireless electronic communication device to compose, send, or read a text-based communication while operating a motor vehicle on the public streets and highways of this State.”
This rule doesn’t apply if you are:
Parked or stopped
Using a hands-free device
Finding directions on a GPS
Getting emergency assistance
Using a digital dispatch system
Public safety official as part of your job
What if you get caught texting and driving?
You could be fined $25 for texting and driving in South Carolina, according to state law. In 2022, 1,776 texting citations were given out statewide, according to the S.C. Department of Public Safety.
These citations do not go on your driving record and are not reported to your insurance company.
If a police officer or sheriff pulls you over for texting and driving, they may not search your vehicle or phone.
