Remember what happens on July 1 in California.
- Drivers under the age of 18 may not use a wireless telephone, pager,
laptop or any other electronic communication or mobile services device
to speak or text while driving in any manner, even "hands-free."
EXCEPTION: Permitted in emergency situations to call police, fire or
medical authorities (VC §23124). - Drivers 18 and over will be allowed to use a "hands-free" device to talk on their wireless telephone while driving.
- The new law does not prohibit dialing, but drivers are strongly urged not to dial while driving. You can use a Bluetooth earpiece however you cannot have BOTH ears covered.
- The law does not specifically prohibit texting by adults, but an officer can pull
over and issue a citation to a driver of any age if, in the officer's
opinion, the driver was distracted and not operating the vehicle
safely. Sending text messages while driving is unsafe at any speed and
is strongly discouraged. - The base fine for the FIRST offense is $20 and $50 for subsequent
convictions. With the addition of penalty assessments, the fines can be
more than triple the base fine amount. - The violation is a reportable offense, however, DMV will not assign a violation point.
For more information go to the CA Department of Motor Vehicles.
Your hands free device doesn't have to be Bluetooth, you can buy a cheap headset or get one for free. Until you get your hands free device just turn off the phone for now.