NEW CELL PHONE TEXTING LAW (Safe Driving Law) - Massachusetts
Effective September 30, 2010
Sending or Reading Electronic Messages:
Operators cannot use any mobile device to write, send or read an e-message while operating a vehicle. This LAW applies to all drivers of all ages.
PENALTY (for all ages)
1st offense = $100 fine
2nd offense = $250 fine
3rd offense + = $500 fine
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OPERATORS UNDER AGE 18:
Age 18 and under cannot use any mobile e device for any reason while operating a motor vehicle.
Exception: Emergency Only
PENALTY (18 or under)
1st offense = $100 fine; 60 day license suspension and an attitudinal retraining course
2nd offense = $250 fine; 180 day license suspension
3rd offense + = $500 fine; one year suspension
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Unsafe or impeded operation due to the use of a mobile phone:
Operators over 18 can use mobile phone for calls as long as one hand is on steering wheel at all times. The use of a mobile phone must not interfere with driving and cannot be used for texting.
PENALTY (for all ages):
1st offense = $35 fine
2nd offense (within 12 months) = $75 fine
3rd offense (within 12 months) = $50 fine
NOTE: IT IS NOT AN OFFENSE IF THE VEHICLE IS PARKED IN AN AREA OF THE ROAD NOT MEANT FOR DRIVING.
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NEGLIGENT OPERATION AND INJURY FROM MOBILE PHONE USE:
Personal injury or property damage caused by negligent operation of a motor vehicle is a CRIMINAL OFFENSE. If you crash because you were using a mobile electronic device you will face criminal charges. In addition to the criminal charges, you will face loss of license as described below:
PENALTY (under age 18):
1st offense = 180 day suspension
2nd offense + within 3 years = one year suspension
PENALTY (18 Years or older):
1st offense = 60 day suspension
2nd offense + within 3 years = one year suspension
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