Indiana § 9-21-8-59 - Use of telecommunications device while operating a moving motor vehicle
Full text of Indiana Indiana Code § 9-21-8-59 — Use of telecommunications device while operating a moving motor vehicle, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 9-21-8-59. Use of telecommunications device while operating a moving motor vehicle
Sec. 59. (a) Except as provided in subsections (b) and (c), a person may not hold or use a telecommunications device while operating a moving motor vehicle.
(b) A telecommunications device described in IC 9-13-2-177.3(a)(1) may be used in conjunction with hands free or voice operated technology.
(c) A telecommunications device may be used or held to call 911 to report a bona fide emergency.
(d) A police officer may not, without the consent of the person:
(1) confiscate a telecommunications device for the purpose of determining compliance with this section;
(2) confiscate a telecommunications device and retain it as evidence pending trial for a violation of this section; or
(3) extract or otherwise download information from a telecommunications device for a violation of this section unless:
(A) the police officer has probable cause to believe that the telecommunications device has been used in the commission of a crime;
(B) the information is extracted or otherwise downloaded under a valid search warrant; or
(C) otherwise authorized by law.
(e) The bureau may not assess points under the point system for a violation of this section occurring before July 1, 2021.
As added by P.L.185-2011, SEC.4. Amended by P.L.191-2014, SEC.1; P.L.100-2020, SEC.3; P.L.141-2024, SEC.17.
IC 9-21-9Chapter 9. Slow Moving Vehicles
9-21-9-0.5Applicability 9-21-9-1Application of chapter 9-21-9-2Slow moving vehicle emblem; display 9-21-9-3Slow moving vehicle emblem; restrictions on use 9-21-9-4Flashing lamps; requirements 9-21-9-5Repealed 9-21-9-6Red flags 9-21-9-7Violations; Class C infraction
Source: official Indiana text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Indiana § 9-21-8-59
What does Indiana Code § 9-21-8-59 cover?
Section 9-21-8-59 ("Use of telecommunications device while operating a moving motor vehicle") is part of the Indiana Code, the codified statutory law of Indiana. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Indiana § 9-21-8-59?
A common citation format is "Indiana Code § 9-21-8-59" (Indiana). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Indiana law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Indiana official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Indiana attorney.
How does Indiana § 9-21-8-59 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Indiana can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Indiana.