New Mexico § 66-7-374 - Texting while driving
Full text of New Mexico New Mexico Statutes Annotated § 66-7-374 — Texting while driving, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 66-7-374. Texting while driving
A. A person shall not read or view a text message or manually type on a handheld mobile
communication device for any purpose while driving a motor vehicle, except to summon
medical or other emergency help or unless that device is an amateur radio and the
driver holds a valid amateur radio operator license issued by the federal communications
commission. B. The provisions of this section shall not be construed as authorizing the seizure
or forfeiture of a handheld mobile communication device. Unless otherwise provided by law, the handheld mobile communication device used
in the violation of the provisions of this section is not subject to search by a law
enforcement officer during a traffic stop made pursuant to the provisions of this
section. C. As used in this section: (1) “ driving ” means being in actual physical control of a motor vehicle on a highway or street
and includes being temporarily stopped because of traffic, a traffic light or stop
sign or otherwise, but “driving” excludes operating a motor vehicle when the vehicle
has pulled over to the side of or off of an active roadway and has stopped at a location
in which it can safely remain stationary; (2) “ handheld mobile communication device ” means a wireless communication device that is designed to receive and transmit text
or image messages, but “handheld mobile communication device” excludes global positioning
or navigation systems, devices that are physically or electronically integrated into
a motor vehicle and voice-operated or hands-free devices that allow the user to compose,
send or read a text message without the use of a hand except to activate, deactivate
or initiate a feature or function; and (3) “ text message ” means a digital communication transmitted or intended to be transmitted between
communication devices and includes electronic mail, an instant message, a text or
image communication and a command or request to an internet site; but “text message”
excludes communications through the use of a computer-aided dispatch service by law
enforcement or rescue personnel.
Frequently Asked Questions About New Mexico § 66-7-374
What does New Mexico Statutes Annotated § 66-7-374 cover?
Section 66-7-374 ("Texting while driving") is part of the New Mexico Statutes Annotated, the codified statutory law of New Mexico. 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 New Mexico § 66-7-374?
A common citation format is "New Mexico Statutes Annotated § 66-7-374" (New Mexico). 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 New Mexico law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the New Mexico official source linked on this page or consult a licensed New Mexico attorney.
How does New Mexico § 66-7-374 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in New Mexico 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 New Mexico.