California’s New No-Touch Phone Law: What It May Mean for Your Personal Injury Case
Strict Ruling Expands Liability for Distracted Driving in California
What Is California’s No-Touch Phone Law?
For years, California Vehicle Code § 23123.5 prohibited drivers from holding and operating a phone or electronic communication device while driving—unless used in a hands-free manner. The Legislature intended to curtail accidents caused by distracted driving, which has caused numerous injuries and fatalities across California.
Previously, small actions such as a single tap or swipe while driving were allowed under the law. However, as of June 3, 2025, the California Court of Appeals has ruled that any physical contact with a handheld phone, even a brief touch, is a violation of the Vehicle Code. The ruling—popularly referred to as the “no-touch law”—aims to strengthen efforts to reduce distracted driving accidents in California.
How Does the No-Touch Law Impact California Personal Injury Cases?
Proving Negligence Against Distracted Drivers
In personal injury claims, proving negligence is key to securing compensation.
Under California law, negligence requires:
- A legal duty to use care
- A breach of that duty
- That the breach caused injury
The no-touch law may be used by plaintiffs to strengthen their argument that the at-fault driver breached their duty of care and that this was the cause of their injuries.
Furthermore, a driver who violated the no-touch law may now be considered negligent per se, which means:
- They violated a statute (the no-touch law)
- That violation contributed to the harm
This legal framework can significantly strengthen personal injury claims resulting from distracted driving incidents.
How This Law Can Affect Your Case
Violations of the no-touch law may now carry increased legal weight in civil litigation. Even a minor interaction with a phone—like checking a map or changing a song—can result in the driver being held legally responsible for the accident.
If you have been injured in a car accident in California and suspect the other driver was using their phone or other electronic device in violation of the no-touch law, this may help you in pursuing compensation for:
- Medical bills
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
- Property damage
Get Legal Support from the Law Offices of Ali Taheripour
At the Law Offices of Ali Taheripour, we stay informed about California’s evolving traffic laws and how they affect personal injury victims. Our legal team is here to hold negligent, distracted drivers accountable and to help you secure the compensation you deserve.