What Is the Distracted Driving Law in Maine?

Understand the Rules—and the Risks—That Come With Using a Phone Behind the Wheel

Distracted driving isn’t just dangerous—it’s against the law in Maine. Whether you’re heading down I-95 or navigating a small-town intersection, all it takes is a glance at a phone to cause a crash that changes someone’s life. As a law firm that’s represented more than 25,000 injured Mainers since 1974, we’ve seen firsthand how preventable these types of car accidents can be. And when someone’s negligence leads to serious harm, our Maine distracted driving accident lawyers are ready to help you hold them accountable.

Maine’s Distracted Driving Law Explained

Maine’s laws take distracted driving seriously—especially when it involves handheld electronic devices. Under 29-A MRS §2121, drivers are prohibited from using, holding, or interacting with a handheld phone or device while operating a motor vehicle. This includes texting, making calls, scrolling through apps, or even adjusting GPS settings.

The law does allow for hands-free use, but only if the driver is 18 or older and the device can be operated without holding it. There are also narrow exceptions for contacting emergency services in true emergency situations.

Violating Maine’s distracted driving law carries consequences:

• First offense: Minimum $250 fine
• Repeat offenses: Possible 30-day license suspension

Drivers under 18—and those with a learner’s permit—are held to even stricter standards. They cannot use any handheld device at all while driving, regardless of whether it’s hands-free.

What Counts as Distracted Driving?

It’s not just texting. Maine law also defines distracted driving under 29-A MRS §2118 as doing anything behind the wheel that “is not necessary to the operation of the vehicle” and that “impairs or would reasonably be expected to impair” the driver’s ability to operate safely.

This includes:

• Eating or drinking
• Reaching for objects
• Personal grooming
• Arguing with passengers
• Daydreaming or emotional distractions

If this kind of behavior causes a crash, a driver may be cited for failure to maintain control of a vehicle, a traffic infraction with serious consequences.

Why Distracted Driving Laws Matter

Injured Mainers know how devastating one distracted moment can be. From spinal cord injuries to traumatic brain damage, the impact of a crash doesn’t end when the cars stop moving. Medical bills pile up. Time away from work takes a toll. The emotional strain can last a lifetime.

That’s why these laws exist—to protect everyone on the road. And when a distracted driver breaks the rules, resulting in someone else paying the price, the legal system provides a path to justice. At the Law Offices of Joe Bornstein, we help injured Mainers navigate that path every day.

Encouraging Safer Choices Through the Arrive Alive Creative Contest

At our firm, we don’t just advocate for victims—we also promote prevention. Each year, we sponsor the Arrive Alive Creative Contest for graduating Maine high school seniors.

This contest challenges students to send a powerful message to their peers about the dangers of distracted and impaired driving. Entries have included:

• Short films and animations
• Music and spoken word pieces
• Artwork, essays, and even board games

First-place winners receive a new laptop, and all participants get fun prizes from our firm. But more than that, the contest gives young people a voice—and a platform—to help save lives.

To learn more or to enter this year’s contest, visit www.arrivealivecreativecontest.com. The deadline to submit is Friday, May 2nd, 2025.

Injured by a Distracted Driver? Call Joe.

If you were hurt in a crash involving distracted driving, don’t let the insurance companies call the shots. We’ve been fighting—and winning—for injured Mainers for over 50 years. Our team knows the law, knows the tactics insurers use, and knows how to build strong claims that get real results.

From Sanford to Bangor and everywhere in between, we’re ready to help. If you can’t come to us, we’ll come to you. Virtual consultations are also available. Don’t wait. Contact the Law Offices of Joe Bornstein today for a free case evaluation.

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The Legal Team at Joe Bornstein

The Joe Bornstein Legal Team is built on decades of experience, dedication, and a deep commitment to helping injured Mainers get the justice they deserve. Since 1974, the firm has grown from a one-room office into a trusted statewide presence, securing over 25,000 victories and recovering more than $750 million for clients. Backed by a team of skilled attorneys, paralegals, and legal professionals, the firm continues to advocate for individuals and families across Maine with the same integrity, compassion, and determination it was founded on.

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