The Boston Globe reported last week that the Massachusetts Legislature’s Joint Transportation Committee has approved a bill that would prohibit Massachusetts drivers from using handheld cellphones while driving. The unanimous 8-0 vote is the first step in an attempt to make the Commonwealth the 10th state in the U.S. to ban drivers from using handheld cellphones while behind the wheel.
Now that the Committee has approved the bill, the House and Senate will be next to review the bill and ultimately decide its fate. There is no exact date that has been made public as to when a vote is expected to take place.
While the bill would outlaw handheld cellphones, it would allow drivers to use hands-free technology while at the wheel. If the bill is passed, drivers whose cellphones are not equipped with hands-free technology will either have to wait to use their phones until they get to their destination or will have to pull over and park in order to take the call.
In September of 2010, the Safe Driving Law came into effect in Massachusetts. The Safe Driving Law banned drivers under the age of 18 from using a cellphone at all while driving and also prohibited drivers of all ages from texting. Since the enactment of the law officials have faced a number of challenges, including trying to establish when a driver is dialing a number or actually texting.
Over the next few months, we should have a better idea on where the hands-free campaign is heading and what that will mean for the future of talking while driving in Massachusetts. In the meantime, please drive safely.
When Should You Call a Massachusetts Car Accidents Attorney?
Have you or a loved one suffered serious injuries in a car accident in Massachusetts due to another driver’s distracted driving?
Call a Massachusetts car accidents attorney with Kiley Law Group at (800) 410-2769 to find out about your legal options.
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