What the new "Hands-Free Driving" law means for you

Now that the new MA Hands-Free Driving Law is in effect, you might be wondering what that means for you and your family.

The law states: Drivers and cyclists over the age of 18 are required to use electronic devices and mobile phones in hands-free mode and only permits touching the device to activate hands-free mode or GPS when installed or mounted in the car. Simply put: When you're driving (this includes stopping at a light or stuck in traffic) you can only touch your cell phone once to activate hands-free mode. Plus, your cell phone must be mounted to your car. You can't hold or support it!

And, remember: Drivers under the age of 18 are still not allowed to use any electronic devices, even when they are in hands-free mode. For those under 18, all phone use while driving is illegal!

A grace period, where warnings are given out instead of tickets, will be observed until March 31, 2020. After that, the penalties for violating the hands-free law are:

First Offense: $100 fine

Second Offense: $250 fine, plus mandatory completion of a distracted driving educational program

Third Offense: $500 fine, mandatory completion of a distracted driving educational program, plus a 6-year insurance surcharge*

#handsonwheel#putthecelldown