I think we might all understand the ramifications of using a cellphone while driving especially in Great Falls.

via GIPHY

Even though there are clear rules for these types of things, I still see people and *ahem* law enforcement *ahem* using a phone, and not watching the road in the streets of Great Falls.

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Montana does not presently have a law in the books for texting and driving, however The Montana Department of Transportation do suggest not texting and driving as well as avoiding all distractions that prevent anyone from driving safely:

Sending or receiving a text takes a driver’s eyes from the road for an average of 4.6 seconds, the equivalent –at 55 mph-of driving the length of an entire football field, blind.
Texting while driving is one of the most dangerous of all distracted driving activities, because it takes your hands off the wheel and eyes and mind off the road.

Although the state hasn't addressed a law pertaining to texting and driving, Great Falls has a law, and local law enforcement does enforce it.

Ordinance 3090

This ordinance restricts the use of hand held communication devices within the city limits while operating a motorized vehicle or bicycle. Users will be able to talk on their phones, while in their car, but must use a hands free device.

There are penalties for disobeying the ordinance:

A first conviction for a violation of Section 10.39.110, shall be punishable by a fine not less than two hundred dollars ($200.00) and not more than five hundred dollars ($500.00).

Fines get more severe with repeated conviction including jail time.

No matter who you are, or what you do, it might be a good and safe idea to let the phone wait until you get to you destination.