California Court Says Viewing Phone While Driving OK

A California appeals court decided Thursday some cellphone use while driving is legal.

Steven Spriggs of Fresno, Calif., successfully argued he didn't deserve a $165 fine for violating a statelaw against using cellphones while driving because he was not using his phone for communication, but instead using a map application to find a new route.

“Spriggs contends he did not violate the statute because he was not talking on the telephone. We agree,” a three-judge panel ruled. “Based on the statute’s language, its legislative history and subsequent legislative enactments, we conclude that the statute means what it says – it prohibits a driver only from holding a wireless telephone while conversing on it.”

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