Southern California - Texting while you ride

Hey, just saw this over at http://latimesblogs.latimes.com/technology/2008/12/illegal-and-tex.html:

Q: Is it illegal to text while driving a motorcycle or a bicycle?
A: A motorcycle has a motor, so it would be illegal to text while driving a motorcycle. A bike doesn't have a motor, therefore it is not illegal. But if you're riding a bicycle, you should be paying attention to your surroundings.

I've used my phone once before while riding... it was a messy experience and I assume sending a text message is even worse! Seems to me they should've just banned it for all vehicles on the road.

Heck, I text while trackstanding no handed, waiting for the light to change at a busy intersection. Yes. :D

Actually, as I understand it, a cyclist has all the rights and responsibilities of any vehicle operator. It doesn't matter whether or not you have a motor. Therefore, it would probably be illegal to text while riding.

BTW.....I notice your ID is V6V6V6. I have a good friend who fishes quite a bit who also goes by that name. That wouldn't be you, would it? :-)

Actually, as I understand it, a cyclist has all the rights and responsibilities of any vehicle operator. It doesn't matter whether or not you have a motor. Therefore, it would probably be illegal to text while riding.
There's a distinction between "vehicle" and "motor vehicle" in the codes. Cyclists have the rights and responsibilities as drivers of vehicles. All the laws that tell you to use the left turn lane for left turns, stop at traffic lights, etc., always start off with "the driver of a vehicle shall...." and therefore also apply to cyclists. But there are some additional laws to only apply to drivers of motor vehicles - such as the requirement to be licensed and have insurance. This new law about cell phone use actually says "motor vehicle" instead of "vehicle" - so the officer is correct.

http://www.dmv.ca.gov/pubs/vctop/d11/vc23123.htm

There's a distinction between "vehicle" and "motor vehicle" in the codes. Cyclists have the rights and responsibilities as drivers of vehicles. All the laws that tell you to use the left turn lane for left turns, stop at traffic lights, etc., always start off with "the driver of a vehicle shall...." and therefore also apply to cyclists. But there are some additional laws to only apply to drivers of motor vehicles - such as the requirement to be licensed and have insurance. This new law about cell phone use actually says "motor vehicle" instead of "vehicle" - so the officer is correct.

http://www.dmv.ca.gov/pubs/vctop/d11/vc23123.htm


Thanks for setting this straight.

Even if it was legal, texting while on a motorcycle is a great way to earn a Darwin Award.

I can barely text while sitting in a chair.
Just imagine the carnage if I tried to text while riding, or even walking for that matter!

Now send a photo w/ the phone, that I can do.

Oy. I've seen guys who can do it just fine, and I ain't gonna hit 'em upside the head with a government just cuz I can't.
I sure ain't gonna start trying it, though. I'd be on a first-name basis with the asphalt... again.