What is the new cell phone law in Massachusetts?

What is the new cell phone law in Massachusetts?

Beginning February 2020, MA drivers can only use mobile devices in “hands-free mode.” Drivers under 18 cannot use mobile devices at all, not even in hands-free mode. For those under 18, any use of a mobile phone while driving (even just for talking) has long been prohibited.

Who can use their phone while driving in Massachusetts?

Massachusetts already bans texting while driving, as well as all handheld phone use by drivers under the age of 18. The new law means that handheld phone use is now banned for adult drivers, unless their device is in hands-free mode.

Does mass have a hands-free law?

CHICOPEE, Mass. (WWLP/Mass.gov) – Tuesday marks the one-year anniversary of the Massachusetts hands-free while driving law. The law prohibits drivers from using any electronic device in their vehicles, unless said device is in a “hands-free mode”.

Can you drive with Airpods in Massachusetts?

In Massachusetts it is illegal to wear headphones or earbuds while operating a motor vehicle. The only way your allowed to do it is if you keep one ear free to hear those sirens and horns.

Is it illegal to eat and drive in MA?

Massachusetts does not ban eating and driving, per se. Talking to passengers, adjusting a car stereo, or eating can all be dangerous.” David Procopio, spokesman for the Massachusetts State Police, said there is no law against eating a sandwich or drinking a nonalcoholic beverage while driving.

What is a hands-free violation?

A driver cannot have a phone in their hand or use any part of their body to support their phone. Drivers can only use their phones to make or receive phone calls by using speakerphone, earpiece, wireless headphone, phone is connected to vehicle or an electronic watch.

Is it against the law to hold your phone while driving in Massachusetts?

BOSTON — With a stroke of his pen, Gov. Charlie Baker on Monday made Massachusetts the 21st state to prohibit drivers from holding their cellphones while driving. “Operators driving a car should not be holding a phone to text, check social media or email,” Baker said moments after signing the bill.

What is the safe driving law in Massachusetts?

Massachusetts has had a Safe Driving Law effective as of September 2010. The law bans sending, typing or reading electronic messages to or from handheld devices while operating a motor vehicle. This includes use of the internet and text messaging. The law also bans all handheld electronic by junior operators while behind the wheel.

Is it illegal to use your cell phone while driving?

This is a primary law, meaning that a law enforcement officer does not need another reason to conduct a stop and issue a traffic ticket for this offense. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) forbids all motorists who hold commercial driver’s licenses from cell phone use while driving.

How old do you have to be to use a cell phone in Massachusetts?

Cell phone restrictions: Junior operators who are 16 and 17 years old are banned from using electronic devices even if the device is in hands-free mode.