[Windows Phone 7 General] JVH3:
In this particular case, he mentioned that it is a local law about "operating any mobile device."

Nothing about calls or apps or even using a cell network. I guess it depends on the city's legal definition for "operating" and "mobile device."

I bet if he went to court it could have been erased or turned into a warning. The fines are pretty small though. Usually less than $200. Some, such as California are only $20 or $50. Wouldn't be worth taking a day off of work to fight.

After looking at several states' laws there is usually something about handsfree calling and something about texting. Email and any other text based messaging is generally included in texting. It's not just SMS and MMS. Some of the laws are just about operating it in general.

Many specifically put exclusions in for allowing use of the gps so that remains allowed. Some specify how it must be used.

In the ones that don't specify anything about the GPS, you're kind of up to the cop's interpretation. Especially true when the phone in general is not to be used. Good to know the specific laws and interpretations for the area you are in.

Now, what if a text comes in while using the gps for directions? With my iPhone, the message displays on top and stays there. If it is out of my pocket or I take it out, I see it. I think that would mean I received and read a text message while driving. I'm guilty.

Some may, but I don't think most of the portable GPS units disable. It may depend on the state they are sold in. My low end TomTom bought in Wisconsin on Black Friday 2009 (only for time reference), does not disable at any speed. My girlfriend's Buick Rendezvous has the built in nav system, which does prevent input when moving. Really annoying when a passenger could adjust the destination, but can't without pulling over. My mother's mid range Garmin bought in Minnesota on Black Friday 2010 also does not disable when she and her fiance drive.

In general, it's best to not let law enforcement see that you are using a cell while driving, even in states that it is allowed. Hands free is better. Making a slightly bad lane change or speeding can easily get you a ticket if a cop sees the phone in your hand, but the cop might be more understanding if it is not seen.

Turn by Turn without tapping is also better. I just don't see this being a legal issue for most. I think alot of this depends on the techno smarts of the cop and how the cop's day is going.

There are some new laws that we Americans are paying our legistlators and senators to vote on and debate. The same type of people, but at the state level, that decided they were not smart enough to vote on SOPA. I am wondering how many of them have actually used a smart phone. And of those that have, I wonder how many actually use any of the messaging features for appropriate content. They supposedly represent us.

Hopefully the laws will also be clearer and easier to follow. It's one thing to send a message. It's another to view one. I did not see any states with laws on texting that allow even glancing at the message on the lock screen before unlocking it.

Hopefully Apollo brings non tapping navigation or that it comes sooner as an update or an update to Tango. Then this whole issue can go away.