The Hands Free Law is all around us, New Hampshire, Vermont, New York & Connecticut all have it.
Do you know what it means for you?
I found this information about NH from http://www.handsfreenh.com
No use of hand-held electronic devices capable of providing voice or data communication while driving or temporarily halted in traffic for a stop sign or traffic signal or other momentary delays
- This includes cell phones, GPS, tablets, iPods, iPads or other devices that require data entry
- Emergency calls to 911 or other public safety agencies will be allowed
- Bluetooth or other hands-free electronic devices will be allowed
- One hand non-cellular 2-way radio use will be allowed
- Teen drivers under the age of 18 will not be allowed to use any electronic devices (hand-held or not) except to report an emergency. Anyone violating this will be subject to penalties and license suspension or revocation.
- If your vehicle is not equipped with Bluetooth functionality, auto service centers can install after-market systems or over the ear devices can be purchased at retailers such as Staples, Best Buy or your cell phone carrier.
Why is the NH Law Important?
- During the past 4 years, 116 fatal crashes in New Hampshire were caused by distraction
- The increasing use of electronic devices is fast becoming the primary distraction
- While texting, a driver is 23 times more likely to crash
- Sending or receiving a text distracts the driver for almost 5 seconds
- At 50 miles per hour, we travel longer than the length of a football field during that 5 seconds
- Even dialing a phone number increases the risk of crashing by 3 times
There is also a lot of information about Massachusetts Highway Safety at http://www.ghsa.org/html/stateinfo/bystate/ma.html
We need to drive to work, get the kids, and to get groceries. The best way to make sure your car is going to be in top working order is preventive maintenance. From the basics of regular oil changes to mileage interval services based on your manufacturer’s recommendations. I always say it is better to do a little at a time when you can budget for repairs as compared to when you break down and are being towed in.