What Is The New Massachusetts Hands-Free Law? 3 Things To Know

​The Hands Free Driving Law goes into effect February 23, 2020.  Here are 3 things you should know:

1.  What does the hands-free law ban?
     For Drivers who are 18 and over:

• Any use of a hand-held device while driving.  This means no texting, calling, scrolling, swiping or otherwise  holding a cellphone while driving.  You must use devices / phones only in the "hands-free" mode and you can only touch the device to activate the "hands-free".  The device must be installed or mounted properly to the dashboard or console.
• Are permitted to activate GPS navigation by voice command when the devise is mounted properly
• Voice to text and use of a headphone (one ear) is legal as long as device is mounted properly

       Drivers who are under 18:

• ALL device/cell phone use is illegal - including "hands-free" mode​

2.  What are the penalties?

• First offense:  $100 fine
• Second offense:  $250 fine plus mandatory completion of a distracted-driving course
• Third and following offenses: $500 fine PLUS an insurance surcharge PLUS mandatory completion of a distracted-driving course

3.  How does this differ from the texting ban already in place?
Texting while driving is already illegal.  The new "hands-free" law prohibits drivers from texting (scrolling, etc), talking and holding a phone/device altogether unless it's to active the hands-free mode and property mounted.

Contact us today for more information or for assistance in purchasing Massachusetts Insurance.