Illegal mobile phone use while driving comes with serious consequences in California. Many drivers don’t realize how strict the laws have become. If you’ve been cited in Delano, CA, it’s important to understand the penalties and how to fight your ticket.
Understanding Illegal Mobile Phone Use Laws
California’s AB-47, Distracted Driving, amended CA Vehicle Code (VC) Section 23123.5, making penalties tougher. If you receive two illegal mobile phone use convictions within three years, the DMV will add a negligent operator treatment system (NOTS) point to your driving record.
A single ticket might not seem like a big deal, but that second one can seriously impact your insurance rates. That’s why it’s critical to take every violation seriously.
The True Cost of Illegal Mobile Phone Use Convictions
A citation for illegal mobile phone use can lead to more than just a fine. It can affect your insurance rates for years.
Bankrate.com reports:
“Full coverage car insurance costs an average of $2,835 per year in California. The average cost for state minimum coverage is $670 per year.”
Losing your 20% “good driver’s discount” can add about $567 annually to your premium.
A conviction for texting or talking while driving rate increase of 10–12% could mean paying an extra $850 or more per year. Over three years that adds up fast.
Adding a teen driver to your policy? That could raise your premium by thousands.
Now imagine what happens if they get a ticket for illegal mobile phone use. The financial impact is significant.
How a Traffic Attorney Can Help
If you’re facing a ticket, you don’t have to handle it alone.
A skilled Kern County Ticket Attorney can help protect your driving record and possibly reduce penalties.
An Delano attorney may:
Get traffic violator school approved, so you avoid points on your record.
Negotiate for a reduced charge that won’t impact your insurance.
Find errors in the citation that could lead to dismissal.
Why Hiring a Traffic Attorney Matters
Fighting a ticket can be confusing and time-consuming.
A lawyer knows the system and can often appear in court for you. This saves you time and helps you get the best possible outcome.
If you received a citation for illegal mobile phone use in Delano, CA, don’t risk higher insurance rates and DMV points.
Further, with AB-47, a second conviction for distracted driving will mean the DMV will assess one negligent operator treatment system (NOTS) point to your driving record. When your insurance provider discovers it, usually at renewal, they will raise your rate as indicated above.
Since you don’t know which might be easier to get dismissed, it is advisable to consult a traffic lawyer.
A Kern County Ticket Attorney can help you fight the charge and protect your driving record.
Contact Bigger & Harman About an Illegal Mobile Phone Use Ticket in Delano, CA
If you have an illegal mobile phone use ticket in Kern County, call Bigger & Harman at (661) 349-9300—se habla Español 349-9755. We can resolve your ticket in Delano Courthouse while you go to work or school as usual.
Use our online contact form to schedule a consultation, or email us at attorney@biggerharmanlaw.com.
References:
California’s AB-47, Distracted Driving, amended CA Vehicle Code (VC) Section 23123.5, Driving Offenses.
The Bankrate.com article, Average cost of car insurance in CA for 2025.