CA and WA Handsfree Laws Take Effect July 2008
The California and Washington State handsfree laws are approaching fast! They officially take effect on July 1st, 2008 and prohibit driving while using a cell phone without a handsfree device. CAFL can help you stay on the right side of the law and, more importantly, stay safe on the road.
Connecticut, New York, New Jersey, and Washington DC have already passed similar laws in hopes of reducing the number of traffic accidents and improving overall driver safety. According to the CHP, there were 1,232 collisions in 2006 that were attributed to handheld cell phone use compared to 71 that involved handsfree use.
Here is the new law as posted on the CA DMV website:
Drivers 18 years of age or older are prohibited from driving a motor vehicle while using a wireless telephone unless a hands-free device is used.
Exceptions:
Emergency situations, for example: calls to law enforcement, health care provider, fire department, etc.
Emergency service providers operating an authorized emergency vehicle during the course of employment
While operating a vehicle on private property
A person operating a commercial motor truck or truck tractor (excluding pickups), implements of husbandry, farm vehicle, school bus, transit vehicle, or tow truck, if using a two-way radio operated by a push-to-talk feature that does not require the device to be close to the ear
Minors (under 18 years of age) are prohibited from driving a motor vehicle while using a wireless telephone, including a hands-free device, and/or a mobile service device (pagers, texting devices, laptops, etc).
Exceptions:
Emergency situations, for example: calls to law enforcement, health care provider, fire department, etc.
While operating a vehicle on private property
The fines for both laws are:
$20, first offense plus administrative fees
$50, second or subsequent offenses plus administrative fees
Full details and FAQ can be viewed at the CA DMV website.
Information on WA and other state laws can be viewed at the GHSA website.
Corporate wireless programs are now facing the following questions:
How do we adjust our corporate policy to comply with the new law?
Should we be responsible for providing handsfree solutions to our employees?
What are the most effective handsfree options for our needs?
Our experience supporting large companies can help you address these issues.
The 4 most common solutions are:
1) Corded Headset
Simple and inexpensive
No need to charge
2) Bluetooth Wireless Headset
Wireless convenience
Easily portable
3) Bluetooth Wireless Visor Car Kit
Convenient visor location
Can be used in multiple vehicles
4) Bluetooth Wireless Installed Car Kit
Installed loud speaker and mic for optimal sound quality
Advanced call controls (varies by model)
One of the best benefits of Bluetooth is universal compatibility with all manufactures and future models. You can use the same product with your next phone as long as it's Bluetooth enabled.
There are many handsfree products available and CAFL can help you find the best solution for your needs. Feel free to give us a call at 310-220-2250 or email us for expert consultation.
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