Texting while driving is illegal in Tennessee (TCA 55-8-199). Texting while a vehicle is not in motion is not illegal in Tennessee. Like at red lights?

It's ridiculous how often people text and drive. When you see someone driving erratically you can almost guarantee they are texting or using their cell phone in some manner. States are starting to track crashes and cell phone usage. Although, it would appear that texting and driving is not as important as shoplifting when it comes to police action.

Come on, people, put down your phones while driving. It's becoming the new drunk driving. Look up, there may be something or someone in your way.

Tennessee Code Annotated 55-8-199

(1) A violation of this section is a Class C misdemeanor, subject only to imposition of a fine not to exceed fifty dollars ($50.00) and court costs not to exceed ten dollars ($10.00), including, but not limited to, any statutory fees of officers. No state or local litigation taxes shall be applicable to a case prosecuted under this section.

(2) In addition to any fine imposed pursuant to subdivision (d)(1), a person who violates this section as a first offense shall be required to attend and complete a driver education course pursuant to § 55-10-301 ( A reasonable fee between fifty dollars ($50.00) and one hundred seventy-five dollars ($175) may be assessed for the driver education or driver improvement course; provided, that no one shall be refused admittance for inability to pay.).