New 2008 Motor Vehicle Wireless Telephone Laws
Moms and Dads please take note of two new laws dealing with the use of wireless telephones while driving go into effect July 1, 2008 in the state of California. The two laws were the result of SB 1613 and SB 33, authored by Assemblyman Joe Simitian and signed into law by Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger in September 2006.
Below is a list of Frequently Asked Questions concerning these new laws.
Q: When do the new wireless telephone laws take effect?
A: The new laws take effect July 1, 2008.
Q: What is the difference between the two laws?
A: The first prohibits all drivers from using a hand held wireless telephone while operating a motor vehicle, (Vehicle Code (VC) §23123). Motorists 18 and over may use a “hands-free device.” Drivers under the age of 18 may NOT use a wireless telephone or hands-free device while operating a motor vehicle (VC §23124).
Q: What if I need to use my telephone during an emergency, and I do not have a “hands-free” device?
A: The law allows a driver to use a wireless telephone to make emergency calls to a law enforcement agency, a medical provider, the fire department, or other emergency services agency.
Q: What are the fines(s) if I’m convicted?
A: The base fine for the FIRST offense is More »
