July 1, 2008 marks the beginning of the effectivity of a California law requiring drivers to use hand-free devices when talking over cellphones while driving.
Any driver caught holding a cellphone on his ear while driving will be fined. The emphasis here is "while driving". In other words, if a driver is simply parked and is talking on the phone with the cellphone on his ear is exempt from this law.
Using the push-to-talk feature of a phone while driving and holding the phone is also considered illegal. Plus, drivers below 18 years old are not allowed to use any wireless device whether it is hands-free or not.
With todays worsening economic times in the US, it certainly is not worth it to be caught and fined. A driver can be fined for $20.00 on his first offense; subsequent offenses can be fined $50 with additional penalty assessments which can go more than three times.
With the imposition of this law, it certainly can help a driver focus on the road while driving. Perhaps, even possibly lessen traffic accidents on the road.
Perhaps you are driving towards the mountains for a planned camping trip bringing with you your camping gear, and you were tempted to answer a cellphone ringing. Then you put the phone on your ear and along the way you were spotted by a police officer, you still can be cited and fined.
Know the new law and avoid being fined. Besides, you could be saving your own life and even the lives of your passengers including your family from any possible traffic accidents.
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VMT Singuillo is a freelance writer. His subjects may include baby toys, hooded baby towel, knitted baby hats, and more.
Copyright by VMT Singuillo
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Drive safely when going outdoors. Be prepared for any situation. Bring with you always some emergency supplies. On water crafts such as inflatable boats or inflatable kayaks, always wear life vests. Think of safety always.
