Kibbey Wagner Injury & Car Accident Lawyers | May 29, 2025 | Car Accidents
Texting while driving is dangerous, and Florida has laws in place to discourage it. If you’ve been pulled over for texting behind the wheel, you might be wondering how much a texting ticket will cost. Learning about these penalties can help you avoid future problems and car accidents.
Florida’s Texting and Driving Law
In Florida, texting while driving is against the law. The state passed this law because distracted driving is a leading cause of car accidents. Specifically, Florida law prohibits drivers from typing, reading, or sending messages on electronic devices while operating a vehicle.
Police officers can pull you over specifically for texting while driving, as it’s considered a “primary offense.” This means an officer doesn’t need another reason to stop you. If they see you texting, they can immediately issue a ticket.
The law covers more than just text messages. It includes reading or typing emails, instant messages, and even browsing the internet. Simply put, anytime you’re interacting with your phone’s screen while driving, you risk receiving a ticket.
How Much Is a Texting Ticket in Florida?
A texting ticket in Florida usually costs around $30 for a first offense. While this initial fine might not seem very high, there are additional fees and court costs that can increase the amount.
If you receive another texting ticket within five years, the penalties increase significantly. The base fine for a second or subsequent violation jumps to around $60, not including other potential costs and fees.
Additional Consequences of a Texting Ticket
Besides fines, a texting ticket in Florida can also result in points on your driving record. Points against your license can lead to higher car insurance premiums. Too many points within a short time frame can even cause you to lose your driver’s license temporarily.
Here’s how points are assigned:
- First texting violation: No points, unless you’re in a school zone or involved in a crash
- Second texting violation (within 5 years): 3 points on your license
- Texting resulting in an accident: 6 points on your license
Having points on your license can be expensive. Your insurance premiums may increase significantly, costing you hundreds more each year.
Can You Fight a Texting Ticket?
If you receive a texting ticket, you usually have the right to challenge it in court. You might be able to argue that you weren’t actually texting or that the officer made a mistake. However, proving your innocence can be difficult without strong evidence.
Before deciding whether to contest the ticket, consider speaking with an attorney who understands Florida traffic law. They can review your situation, explain your options, and help you decide if going to court is worth the effort and expense.
Steps To Take if You Are Pulled Over for Texting While Driving
If you get pulled over for texting while driving, follow these important tips:
- Stay polite and cooperative with the officer.
- Do not admit to texting or distracted driving, as your statements can be used against you.
- Take notes after the stop about what happened, including details of the conversation with the officer.
These steps can help protect your rights, especially if you decide to fight your ticket later.
If you’re facing a texting ticket in Florida, consulting an experienced traffic attorney can help. Many lawyers offer free consultations, allowing you to understand your options without any upfront cost. A good lawyer can help minimize penalties and possibly prevent points from affecting your driving record.
Contact Kibbey Wagner Injury & Car Accident Lawyers For Help Today
For more information, please contact the Stuart, Port St. Lucie, or Palm Beach Gardens personal injury law firm of Kibbey Wagner Injury & Car Accident Lawyers to schedule a free consultation today.
We proudly serve Martin County, St. Lucie County, Palm Beach County, and its surrounding areas in Florida:
Kibbey Wagner Injury & Car Accident Lawyers Stuart
73 SW Flagler Ave
Stuart, FL 34994
(772) 444-7000
Kibbey Wagner Injury & Car Accident Lawyers Port St. Lucie
1100 SW St. Lucie West Blvd. Ste 202
Port St Lucie, FL 34986
(772) 247-3374
Kibbey Wagner Injury & Car Accident Lawyers Palm Beach Gardens
300 Ave of the Champions Ste 170
Palm Beach Gardens, FL 33418
(561) 944-4000
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