You're sitting at a red light waiting for the traffic signal to change, and your phone buzzes. It can be tempting to reach over and check the text or alert. But doing so is illegal, according to California's distracted driving laws.

While most know it's illegal to handle your phone while the vehicle your driving is moving, many feel confused about whether it's safe or legal when motionless.

"If you’re in traffic, you’re still considered to be driving," said Palm Springs Police Sergeant Kevin Lu. "Distracted driving remains a safety issue in Palm Springs, and we frequently stop motorists who think checking their phone at a red light is legal, it isn’t."

Legally, "distracted driving" is anything that takes your attention off the road or your hands off of the steering wheel, according to

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