How to Fight a Distracted Driving Ticket in Maine
If you got a distracted driving ticket in Maine, you can usually pay it, contest it in court, or pursue a dismissal/mitigation option. Under tit. 29-A, § 2119: first offense = minimum $250 fine; second offense within 3 years = minimum $500 fine + mandatory 30-day license suspension; third offense within 3 years = minimum $500 fine + 60-day suspension; fourth or subsequent offense within 3 years = minimum $500 fine + 90-day suspension.
How to fight a distracted driving ticket in Maine, step by step
Decide how to plead
Pleading not guilty preserves your right to contest the distracted driving charge in Maine and review the evidence against you.
Request the evidence in your case
Ask the court for the officer's notes and any photos, device records, or calibration logs relied on to issue your distracted driving citation — you have a right to review what the case against you is built on.
Know exactly what you're contesting
Under tit. 29-A, § 2119: first offense = minimum $250 fine; second offense within 3 years = minimum $500 fine + mandatory 30-day license suspension; third offense within 3 years = minimum $500 fine + 60-day suspension; fourth or subsequent offense within 3 years = minimum $500 fine + 90-day suspension.
Show up prepared
Under tit. 29-A, § 2119: first offense = minimum $250 fine; second offense within 3 years = minimum $500 fine + mandatory 30-day license suspension; third offense within 3 years = minimum $500 fine + 60-day suspension; fourth or subsequent offense within 3 years = minimum $500 fine + 90-day suspension. Arrive early, dress neatly, and bring your documents plus a short, factual statement of your side.
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Start my free court prep →Maine Distracted Driving ticket — frequently asked questions
What is Maine's texting while driving law?
Tit. 29-A, § 2119 prohibits text messaging while operating a motor vehicle. Maine also prohibits handheld cell phone use while driving (hands-free is required). The texting prohibition applies to writing, sending, or reading a text message while the vehicle is in motion.
What are the penalties for texting while driving in Maine?
Under tit. 29-A, § 2119: first offense = minimum $250 fine; second offense within 3 years = minimum $500 fine + mandatory 30-day license suspension; third offense within 3 years = minimum $500 fine + 60-day suspension; fourth or subsequent offense within 3 years = minimum $500 fine + 90-day suspension. These are minimum fines — courts may impose higher amounts. Cell phone use (handheld) = $50 first offense; $250 second or subsequent offense.
Do texting violations add points in Maine?
Yes — texting and handheld phone violations add demerit points under Maine's point system. The specific point value is NOT CONFIRMED for 2024 — verify at maine.gov/sos/bmv. Given the fine levels (first offense $250), Maine treats this seriously. The second offense triggers a mandatory 30-day suspension regardless of point totals.
Zigpon is an educational self-help guide, not a law firm — this is general information, not legal advice. Laws change and every case is different; verify details with your court or a licensed attorney before acting.