Mobile Phone and Distraction
- 1/21Using a handheld phone while driving
Moroccan law forbids using handheld mobile phones while driving. This rule aims to prevent distraction and reduce accident risk, as handling a device diverts attention from the road.
You hear the sound of a phone ringing while behind the wheel
Drivers must ignore incoming calls when operating a vehicle, postponing response until parked. Picking up or searching for a ringing phone increases crash risk from reduced focus.
Driving in heavy traffic with a phone in hand
Using a phone in heavy traffic is strictly illegal and endangers others. High traffic requires full attention to changing conditions, and handset use distracts from signals, pedestrians, and vehicles.
If a driver is spotted texting while moving
Texting on the move constitutes an immediate violation of Moroccan traffic law, with penalties for endangering road safety. Even momentary glances away can lead to severe accidents.
When stopped at a traffic light and holding a phone
Even while stationary at lights, holding and using a phone remains prohibited in Morocco. Law enforcement may issue fines for device use in any situation where the road is not clear.
At the sound of a navigation app alert on a handheld device
Drivers must park safely before checking alerts or recalculating routes on navigation apps. Handling devices while driving or stopped in traffic violates distraction regulations.
If a call must be answered urgently
Only approved hands-free systems may be used for calls while driving in Morocco. Voice activation or steering-wheel controls ensure minimal distraction and legal compliance.
When driving with children in the car
Mobile device use in the presence of children sets a dangerous example and distracts the driver. All phone use should be avoided to focus attention fully on the road and passengers.
If a hands-free call causes prolonged conversation
Even on hands-free calls, drivers should keep conversations brief. Extended phone talks reduce concentration and may compromise reaction times in dynamic driving environments.
While using in-car infotainment systems
Infotainment or GPS systems must be adjusted before the journey or only during stops. Excessive interaction with screens or buttons while moving is considered a form of distracted driving.
When a driver attempts to video call or record while driving
Filming or video calling while in motion is a serious breach of Moroccos distraction laws. Such activities are strictly prohibited and carry severe penalties due to high safety risks.
When you get a notification, beep, or alert on the dashboard screen
Dashboard notifications must not be checked while driving. Drivers must wait for a safe stop to address them. Eye movement to screens can cause missed hazards or delayed reactions.
If you want music or podcasts to be selected from a smartphone by hand while underway
Drivers must stop the vehicle to select media or alter playlists using a handheld device. Adjustments while moving breach distraction laws and compromise safety.
When setting GPS destination after departing
Inputting destination information into GPS after driving starts is prohibited. All route planning must be completed before the journey begins or after pulling over safely.
Using social media while driving
Social media interaction while driving is fully banned and subject to immediate fines. Messaging, posting, or scrolling creates major distraction and is unsafe on Moroccan roads.
When installing new apps or updating software behind the wheel
All app installations or device updates must be performed when the car is stopped. Technical distraction can lead to inattention and traffic violations.
If a passenger hands the phone to the driver for directions
Drivers must decline and focus on the road when handed a phone. Passengers should operate devices-keeping the driver free from distraction at all times.
When adjusting Bluetooth or voice controls during movement
Bluetooth or voice controls may be used only if adjustments are quick and safe, requiring no extended attention. Complex settings must be handled while stopped.
At all times with pets or children present in the vehicle
Drivers must prioritize road safety and avoid all device distractions when transporting pets or children, maintaining full situational awareness and safe conduct.
While passing through school or residential zones
No phone or infotainment use is permitted when navigating high-density pedestrian areas. Extra caution is required in these zones to protect children and vulnerable road users.
If the driver feels tired or unfocused
Distracted driving combined with fatigue multiplies accident risks. Drivers should avoid any phone or infotainment use and consider stopping to regain focus and ensure safety.