Starting July 1, Californians ages 18 and older, will be required to switch from using hand-held wireless phones to hands-free devices while driving a car.
According to a press release from the California Highway Patrol, there are two acts going into affect in July. The first law prohibits all drivers from using handheld wireless phones while driving. The second law prohibits drivers under the age of 18 from using a wireless phone or a hands-free device while driving.
However, the law does allow a driver to use a wireless phone to make emergency calls to a law enforcement agency, a medical provider, the fire department, or other emergency services agencies.
The prohibition against using a handheld wireless telephone while driving is considered a primary violation for which a law enforcement officer can pull someone over.
The base fine for the first offense is $20 and $50 for subsequent convictions.
For more information about the hands-free device deadline, visit the California Highway Patrol’s Web site at www.chp.ca.gov.
This article appears in Jun 26 – Jul 3, 2008.
