Mar
18
Attention California Drivers
Posted by Irene Soto at 12:18 pm under Uncategorized.
This isn’t IP-related, but it’s important for all of us multi-taskers. So put down your phone, pager and Blackberry and listen up!
Beginning July 1, 2008, two new wireless telephone laws will take effect in California. The first, Vehicle Code § 23123, prohibits all drivers from using handheld wireless phones while operating a motor vehicle. The second, Vehicle Code § 23124, prohibits drivers under the age of 18 from using a hands-free device while operating a motor vehicle.
These laws make California the 4th state (and 5th area, counting D.C.) to implement such a ban.
To make sure that everyone understands the new laws, the CHP has published FAQs. Here’s the gist:
- Base fine plus penalty assessments = $76 for the first offense and $190 for subsequent offenses.
- A conviction will appear on a driving record, but the DMV will not assign a violation point.
- There will be NO grace period.
- Driving while using a handheld device is a primary violation, so law enforcement can pull you over for it. Minors driving while using a wireless device is a secondary violation, so they can only be cited if pulled over for another violation.
- The law does not prohibit drivers over 18 from dialing a number or text messaging, but you can still be pulled over if an officer believes you are distracted and not operating the vehicle safely.
- Speaker phone features and bluetooth headsets are allowed as long as both ears are not covered.
I suppose it’s time to start looking for a handsfree phone accessory. Recommendations welcome.
Excellent Blog. I’ve been reading along and just wanted to say hi. I will be reading more of your posts in the future.
- Jason.
1. who uses pagers anymore?
2. why no comment about what a violation of privacy this new law is. It becomes such a gray area when you start regulating stuff like this. I know there are much more dangerous things to do while driving—eating, discipling your kids, applying makeup etc. and I just don’t know where the government haphazardly decided to draw the line. I’m protesting this! Fines here we come!
(1) Maybe only doctors? I hope.
(2) I’m not sure why you see this as a privacy issue. The law does not say that you can’t talk on the phone while driving (if you’re over 18), just that you can’t talk on the phone, hold the phone, and drive at the same time. Remember that law enforcement has always been able to pull you over if you’re distracted or not driving safely. Driving with only one hand is definitely less safe than driving with two. So, handheld phones = one less hand on the wheel = less safe. Frankly, I welcome the increased pressure to not drive and talk.
How many times have you almost been hit and found that the driver was on the phone? For me, several. And how many times have you been talking on the phone in the car when (1) that call was absolutely necessary at that moment and (2) switching to a handsfree device was not a decent alternative? For me, never.