Getting a second illegal cell phone use ticket in Bakersfield is more serious than many drivers think. With California’s distracted driving laws getting stricter, the consequences go far beyond just paying a fine.
AB-47 and Why It Matters
Since July 2021, AB-47, Distracted Driving, amended the CA Vehicle Code (VC) Section 23123.5.
Now, a conviction or paid fine for a second illegal cell phone use ticket can add one NOTS point to your DMV record. That point stays for three years. Insurance companies see it as risky behavior, and they adjust rates quickly.
First, they’ll likely remove your 20% “good driver’s discount” and then add the risk associated with cell phone use while driving, typically around 10 to 12%.
What Happens After a Second Conviction
A second conviction or paid fine, which is the same thing, sets off a chain reaction.
The DMV applies a NOTS point. Your insurer sees the conviction, typically at renewal. You lose your good driver discount. For many drivers, premiums jump 30 to 32% for up to 39 months.
The driver will end up paying thousands of dollars more for insurance for a minor infraction.
Local Cell Phone Use Issues in Bakersfield
We know how tempting it is to check your phone after it pings with a text notification.
Drivers stopped at the red light at the intersection of Ming Avenue and New Stine Road (the most dangerous intersection in Bakersfield, according to KBAK/FOX58, with 40 collisions) often get cited for distracted driving, when by habit, they pick up their phone to check the notification.
Kern County law enforcement is strict about enforcing illegal cell phone use violations. Even picking up your phone for a quick glance at a red light could cost you.
You must be off the road and parked before picking up your phone.
Why You Should Challenge Every Ticket
Paying the fine feels easy—but the long-term cost is steep. With a second illegal cell phone use ticket, it’s not just money.
It’s your record, your insurance, and your future. That’s why disputing the ticket is always the smarter choice.
It’s wise to consult a traffic attorney about every ticket because the first one might be the easiest to get dismissed.
How a Traffic Attorney Can Help
Our team has resolved over 20,000 tickets for drivers in Bakersfield and other areas of California.
We know the Kern County courts, judges, and procedures. A knowledgeable and experienced traffic attorney can often negotiate a reduced charge or even get the case dismissed if the evidence is weak.
Ineffective Defenses for an Illegal Cell Phone Use Ticket
Many drivers believe there are easy ways to beat a traffic ticket, but most of these approaches rarely work.
Misunderstandings about what counts as a valid defense often lead to disappointment in court. While the outcome of your case depends on state law and the specific details of your citation, the following arguments usually fail:
- Claiming you didn’t know—Saying you know that you couldn’t pick up your phone at a red light won’t help your cause. Drivers are expected to understand and obey traffic laws.
- Pointing out small mistakes—Minor errors on your ticket, such as a typo in your name or even the wrong traffic code, typically won’t make it invalid.
- Faking an emergency: Saying you had to use your phone because of a sudden crisis (such as a sick family member or pet) usually won’t help unless you can prove it was a true emergency. If you used your phone to dial 9-1-1, it would appear on your phone record. Likewise, you could call a witness to testify that it was an emergency.
It's understandable that you can’t afford to hire a traffic ticket attorney for a mobile phone use ticket, but be careful, perjury is much more expensive than a ticket.
The True Financial Impact
According to Bankrate, California drivers already pay some of the highest insurance rates in the country.
In Bakersfield, the average annual rate for full coverage is nearly $2,908. Add a 30% increase, and you’re paying around $872 more each year—for 36 to 39 months, depending on your renewal date.
That’s approximately $2,876 above your current premium with the fine.
Consult Bigger & Harman About a Cell Phone Use Ticket
If you’re facing a second illegal cell phone use ticket in Bakersfield or anywhere in Kern County, don’t just pay the fine.
Our attorneys can review your case and explain your options to you. Without help, you risk higher premiums for years.
With our assistance, you may avoid a conviction and protect your driving record. Contact Bigger & Harman today to fight your ticket in the Bakersfield Courthouse.
Even attorneys in other areas of law use us to resolve their traffic tickets.
“I’m a local Attorney and If you need a traffic attorney, these guys are THE BEST. Very professional and knowledgeable. They're known in the Courts and get amazing results. Whenever friends or family ask me about traffic issues I send them to Bigger & Harman.”—Kevin B., Bakersfield, CA.
Contact Bigger & Harman About Challenging a Second Illegal Cell Phone Use Ticket
Let us assist you to challenge an illegal cell phone use ticket and potentially sidestep unnecessary insurance premium hikes. Call Bigger & Harman today at (661) 349-9300—Se habla Español 349-9755.
Additionally, use our handy online contact form or email us at attorney@biggerharmanlaw.com.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) Section
Q: What happens after a conviction for a second illegal cell phone use ticket in California?
A: The DMV will assess one NOTS point, which usually triggers higher insurance premiums at renewal.
Q: How much could my insurance go up after a second conviction?
A: Although the amount varies, depending on the multiple factors insurance providers use, most drivers see a 30 to 32% increase lasting 36 to 39 months. For average Bakersfield driver with full coverage, it’s nearly $2,500 more. However, if you have a teenager on your policy, the increase could be as much $2,200 per year.
Q: Can Bigger & Harman challenge my second illegal cell phone use ticket?
A: Yes. We resolve traffic tickets in Bakersfield, Kern County, and throughout California, advocating for the rights of drivers.
References:
CA VC 23123.5, Driving Offenses, and AB-47, Distracted Driving.
The CA Driver Handbook English y Español.
The Bankrate.com article, Average cost of car insurance in CA for 2025.