Careful driving in Massachusetts – hands-free is now the law

Hands-Free While Driving – It’s the Law

Sunday was the start of the hands-free while driving law in the state of Massachusetts – here’s what you need to know:

Massachusetts law prohibits operators of motor vehicles from using any electronic device, including mobile telephones, unless the device is used in hands-free mode.

Penalty for violating the hands-free law:

• 1st offense – $100 fine.
• 2nd offense – $250 fine, plus mandatory completion of a distracted driving educational program.
• 3rd and subsequent offenses – $500 fine, plus insurance surcharge and mandatory completion of distracted driving educational program.

What does this mean for me?

Drivers who are 18 and over

• Can only use electronic devices and mobile phones in hands-free mode and are only permitted to touch devices to activate hands-free mode.
• Not permitted to hold or support any electronic device/phone.
• Cannot touch phone except to activate the hands-free mode and can only enable 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.
• Not allowed to touch device for texting, emailing, apps, video, or internet use.
• Activation of GPS navigation is permitted when the device is installed or properly mounted.
• Handheld use is allowed only if the vehicle is both stationary and not located in a public travel lane or a bicycle lane, but is not allowed at red lights or stop signs.
• Voice to text and communication to electronic devices is legal only when device is properly mounted; use of 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.

Operators may use a cell phone to call 911 to report an emergency. If possible, safely pull over and stop before calling 911.

WARNINGS until April 1st – then fines begin.

For more information, go to www.mass.gov/handsfree