Using Waze while driving can cost you more than $700,000

The incorporation of technological tools into everyday life has transformed the way people get around, allowing them to optimize their routes thanks to apps like Waze. However, using this platform while driving can result in fines imposed by Colombian traffic authorities.

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The National Road Safety Agency has reiterated that one of the most frequently sanctioned offenses by traffic authorities is violation C38. This offense, stipulated in the National Traffic Code, penalizes those who manipulate cell phones while driving. The regulations provide for a fine that can exceed $700,000 if it is verified that the driver consulted the device to access social media, navigation apps, or any other digital function.

The regulation stipulates that using a cell phone while driving constitutes a violation, even if the vehicle is stopped at an intersection or at a traffic light. According to authorities, this behavior represents a distraction that can increase the risk of road accidents.

In an interview with El Tiempo, attorney Edwar Loaiza explained that " there are legal alternatives for using these tools without violating traffic regulations." According to the specialist, it's possible to use stands or accessories that make it easier to use your cell phone hands-free, reducing the likelihood of distraction.

Loaiza indicated that "the platform must be operational from the beginning of the trip to avoid distractions during the journey." He also emphasized that "it is important not to check the device until the end of the trip, as authorities may impose sanctions on those who do not comply with the rules."

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The National Traffic Code provides for additional measures in the case of repeated offenses. If a driver is found to have engaged in this behavior repeatedly, they could face a suspension of their driver's license and even vehicle immobilization. There are several safety recommendations regarding the proper location for installing a cell phone inside the car. It is suggested to place the cell phone in areas such as the air vent, near the rearview mirror, or above the radio, as long as it does not obstruct the driver's field of vision or affect steering wheel control. The device must remain securely in a holder that guarantees its stability and prevents it from falling while driving.

For those cases in which the driver does not need to use the cell phone as a navigation or guidance tool, it is best to keep it stored. According to authorities' guidelines, it can be placed in a pocket, the glove compartment, or another compartment that is not tempting to be handled while driving.

In addition to Waze, any app or action that involves diverting attention from a cell phone while driving—such as texting, answering calls without hands-free access, or checking social media—can be considered a violation. The law establishes that simply holding a device in your hands while operating a vehicle is grounds for a fine.

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The National Road Safety Agency has indicated that the responsible use of electronic devices in the context of mobility must take into account current legal provisions. "Using a cell phone while driving is one of the main causes of distraction, and therefore, of accidents in the country," the agency has reiterated in various statements. Therefore, drivers who wish to use roadside assistance applications should ensure they configure them before starting their journey and refrain from any type of interaction with the device while moving.

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