MANITOWOC – While it may be tempting to pick up your phone while waiting in your car at a red light to check incoming messages or the latest news story, drivers caught with a cell phone in hand could be subject to fines and other consequences.

Wisconsin laws prohibit using a cell phone for texting, emailing or any purpose appearing to interfere with driving, other than reporting an emergency while operating a vehicle.

Use of a voice-operated or hands-free device is permitted.

A phone is also allowed to display GPS or other navigational systems, monitor backseat passengers, or road and weather conditions.

The DOT states : "Any lapse in attention to traffic or road conditions is a grave danger to you, your passengers and everyone else on the road."

According to the Wisconsin DOT, the

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