We are, of course, speaking about cell phone usage.
But can you do it hands-free? You’d better if you are in California.
It seems as if just about everyone in a car here in California has a cell phone and is on it while driving down the road. You pretty much tell by the driving –
- they sit at green lights
- move more slowly down the road than anyone
- change lanes without signals (lots of other folks do too)
- meander from lane to lane or make abrupt lane switches
- and otherwise make it obvious they are paying attention to something more important than their driving.
Beginning JULY 1, 2008, you need to use a hands-free device to chat on your telephone while driving if you are 18 years or older.
If you are under 18, you cannot use a wireless telephone OR hands-free device while driving.
Emergency phone calls (no, not to real estate clients) are permitted to law enforcement agencies, medical providers, fire departments and similar services. And this applies to those of you from other states who are house-hunting here in California. Just because your state does not have such a law don’t think you are safe in California.
First offense is $20, with $50 for subsequent violations of this law. And if you don't pay in a timely manner the penalty assessments get ugly - $79 and $190. Hmm, wonder if these are tax deductible?
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or email me at JDowler@remax.net.
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Hey Jeff,
Good info, we/I knew it was coming yet I had no idea of the fines. Now if I could just figure out how to text with my toes!
Brian - I thought it was an issue there.
Lynda - LOL. Interestingly the law does NOT address texting. They do say that an officer can pull you over if they felt you were not driving safely while texting. They don't recommend it at any speed. Seems like a contradcition to me.
Jeff
Sharon - now that IS convenient, and so much safer. The challenge, though, is the dialing I would think unless you can do so by voice command.
Jeff
Hi Jeff,What devise are you using to be in compliance. I am investigating a very neat small device I saw at Costco but looking around at other things. Remember the old car phone? That must have been in the 80's because I had one installed in my Seville. I just can't recall much about dialing it?,lol Come to think of it, I think it was operator assisted?
Jeff,
I know in NY where I use to live you get a big ticket for not having your bluetooth or speaker working hands free but in FL they haven't come out with that law change that I know of but I do use mine anyway....too many people crashing and driving slow.
I often wonder...is it the talking on or the holding of? I understand the desire to keep people safe, but often wonder, what's next? Will they tell us we can't eat or drink while driving? Can't talk to the passengers or listen to music? First came seatbelt requirements...other things will surely follow. Sometimes I think it's more about revenue than safety. I'm not against doing things to increase my personal safety or the safety of those around me, but I don't particularly like being told that I must do these things when some of it should be my personal choice. Heck, in Illinois you can still ride a motorcycle without a helmet. How's that for screwy?
Jeff,
Thank goodness for blue tooth technology!
Is it OK to use your tablet while driving? ... just kidding!
George - I suspect I will have the same issue, as will others. I used to use a blue tooth device but have not for several years since it died. Time to get a new one.
Jeff
William - well I do have a phone I got at the CAR convention last year but am not really happy with it. I need to investigate some things, and soon.
Jeff
Neal -well I think that;s why it is now law here. There are so many cell phone users and many really are pretty bad drivers when they are on the phone. I try not to use my phone in the car and often pull over. BUt I need to get with the program soon.
Jeff
Kelly - well you ask some good questions. There are lots of inconsistencies in the laws. I think some things make sense, but not sure it all does.
Jeff
Diane - you know, we ALL survived for years without cell phones. And yes, things have changed and we have all gotten accustomed to having instant communication with folks no matter where we are. But one has to wonder...
Jeff
Margaret - well, there is no law against it. Nor against text messaging. LOL
Jeff
Oh, Margaret, you are naughty. LOL
Jeff
True for many of us, Brad. But then the new law is not likely to change the driving habits. The problem is being on the phone and talking and not paying attention, NOT the fact that it is handheld or not, IMO.
Jeff
Jay - well it will be interesting to see what happen when the law changes. or are they immune?
Rosemary - agreed. And how about not using turn signals, and other naughty things.
LOL, Margaret - I am pretty "handy" with my knee too!
Jeff