Starting July 1st, 2008, any cell phone use while driving in Washington could get you $101 ticket. This includes reading or writing text messages, or talking on a cell phone without a hands-free device. Similar laws have been in effect in many other states, including military installations within Washington state.
The new "Hang up and Drive" law considers cell phone use without a hands-free device a "secondary" offense. This means that a patrol officer would need to have another reason, such as speeding or driving with a broken break light, to pull someone over. Avoiding a ticket is simple: DRIVE SAFELY
There's no doubt in my mind that keeping one's hands on the steering wheel and one's eyes on the road at all times is prudent and safe. I, as well as many other people who spend a lot of time in their cars, are utilizing driving time to do other things that might take some of our concentration away, such as listening to music, eating lunch, glancing at our GPS, talking with passengers etc...
I own a hands-free phone device, but it still requires a significant amount of fumbling. While these new laws are sensible, they are no substitute for common sense when it comes to other activities in the car. I'm waiting for a hands-free lipstick applicator to come on the market and a hands-free sandwich holder.
Sandy Nelson
Realtor for Olympia area real estate
www.sandynelsonrealestate.com
Comments(9)