Hands Free

Are you driving in the state of California after July 1st?  If you are, be aware that a new law makes it illegal to drive while holding a cell phone to your ear.  All drivers must now decide which device is the best for them.  The choices are:

A cell phone's speakerphone.
A separate speakerphone, handy for those who use hearing aids.
Bluetooth-enabled calling from a newer vehicle's integrated phone system.
A headset or earpiece

The law also bans drivers under the age of 18 from using any kind of mobile device while driving.

Some of the other aspects of the law are:

• Emergencies calls are OK if made to police, health care providers, fire departments or emergency agencies.
• Passengers can use cell phones while in the car.
• There will be no points assessed if a ticket is received.
• Push-to-talk devices will be allowed for those with licenses to operate a truck tractor or motor truck. This exemption does not apply to drivers of pickups with commercial plates, even if the pickup is used for commercial purposes, such as by a contractor, landscaper or other business.
• Speaker Phones can not be held by the driver.

Although I understand the concept of the new law I wonder why eating, applying makeup or shaving were not included in this new law!   Be safe and drive carefully!