02/12/2020
Is everyone up to speed on the upcoming Hands Free Law that starts Feb. 23rd? If not take a quick read! Here are five things to know about the hands-free driving ban:
1. What is prohibited under the hands-free ban?
Drivers who are 18 and over:
•Can use electronic devices and mobile phones only in hands-free mode and are only permitted to touch devices to activate hands-free mode.
•Are not permitted to hold or support any electronic device/phone.
•Cannot touch a phone except to activate the hands-free mode and can enable it only when the device is installed or properly mounted to the windshield, dashboard or center console in a manner that does not impede the operation of the motor vehicle.
•Are not allowed to touch a device for texting, emailing, apps, video or internet use.
•Are permitted to activate GPS navigation when the device is installed or properly mounted.
•Are allowed handheld use only if the vehicle is both stationary and not located in a public travel lane or a bicycle lane, but are not allowed handheld use at red lights or stop signs.
•Voice-to-text and communication to electronic devices is legal only when a device is properly mounted; use of a headphone (one ear) is permitted.
Drivers who are under 18:
•Are not allowed to use any electronic devices. All phone use while driving is illegal, including use in hands-free mode.
2. What is the penalty for violating the hands-free ban?
•First offense – $100 fine.
•Second offense – $250 fine, plus mandatory completion of a distracted-driving educational program.
•Third and subsequent offenses – $500 fine, plus insurance surcharge and mandatory completion of distracted-driving educational program.