The Banning of Cell Phone Use While Driving in Massachusetts

The Banning of Cell Phone Use While Driving in Massachusetts

Early last week the Massachusetts Senate voted 38-1 to ban the use of hand-held cellphones while driving, and today, Monday, November 25, 2019, Governor Charlie Baker signed the bill into law, which means it will take effect in 90 days.

Senator Joseph Boncore said that distracted driving claims about 3,000 lives a year. “These deaths are preventable,” said Boncore.

When the bill does go into effect, you may only use your cellphone while driving in the following two instances:

You can still view maps generated by a navigation system but only if your cellphone is mounted on your windshield or dashboard.

You can use your cellphone in response to an emergency, such as an accident.

The penalties for using your cellphone while driving?

  • First offense – $100 fine
  • Second offense – $250 fine AND driver’s safety course
  • Third offense – $500 fine AND surcharge to insurance.

 

 

Resource: NBCBoston.com, NEPR