For many Washington DC-area residents, driving into Virginia is part of the daily routine. But crossing the Potomac also means following Virginia's rules for cellphone use behind the wheel.
Virginia is reminding drivers of those restrictions through a new statewide distracted-driving campaign, while a recently enacted law adds another restriction on how motorists can use their phones behind the wheel.
The restrictions cover everything from handheld calls and texting to newer rules targeting livestreaming behind the wheel.
What should DC-area drivers know about Virginia's distracted-driving rules?
Virginia has prohibited drivers from holding cellphones or other wireless communication devices while driving since 2021.
That means drivers cannot pick up their phones to read or send messages, scroll through social media or make
handheld calls while operating a vehicle. Drivers can still make calls using hands-free technology.
Navigation apps are also permitted as long as motorists don't holding their phones or manually enter information while driving.
A newer restriction took effect July 1. Under House Bill 320, drivers cannot livestream while operating a moving vehicle.
A first conviction carries a fine of up to $500, a second conviction results in a mandatory 30-day driver's license suspension and a third or subsequent conviction carries a 90-day suspension.
However, the new restriction does not give police authority to stop drivers solely for livestreaming behind the wheel.
Virginia DMV launched its latest distracted-driving awareness campaign, called "Open Your Eyes," on Nov. 9. The campaign encourages motorists to keep their attention on the road rather than their phones.
For DC-area commuters, avoiding distractions means more than just staying off social media. Virginia DMV recommends turning on Do Not Disturb, putting phones somewhere out of reach and setting up GPS directions and music before starting a trip.
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Virginia's distracted-driving crackdown is coming to DC-area commuters
