Starting July 1, 2008, two new wireless telephone laws that will affect millions of California motorists will be implemented. The first law prohibits any person driving a motor vehicle from using a handheld telephone; however, use of a hands-free device is allowed for motorists over 18 years of age. The second law prohibits all drivers under 18 from using a wireless telephone or a hands-free device while driving.
A few details about the laws:
-- You may use it in an emergency to call a law enforcement agency, medical provider, or fire department.
-- Fines including the addition of penalty assessments are $76 for the first offense and $190 for the second offense.
-- The offense will go on your driving record, but the DMV will not assign a violation point.
-- This law only applies to the person driving a motor vehicle, not to passengers.
For Drivers over 18:
-- The law doesn't prohibit dialing or texting on your wireless phone while driving, but it discourages doing this.
-- Use of your wireless phone's speaker function while driving is allowed.
For Drivers under 18:
-- The law prohibits drivers under the age of 18 from using any type of electronic communication device to speak or text while driving, even a hands-free device, except in an emergency as noted above.
For more information, visit the California Highway Patrol website at www.chp.ca.gov.
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