On June 1st, 2018 Rhode Island’s “Hands-Free Law” will go into effect in a statewide effort to reduce the number of distracted drivers talking on the phone and texting while driving on the R.I. roads. Distracted driving is the cause of most car accidents, motorcycle accidents, auto-pedestrian accidents and auto-bicycle accidents in populated areas like Brown University campus in Providence and Route-2 (Reservoir Ave) through Cranston and Warwick.
What Is Rhode Island’s New Hands-Free Law?
Under the R.I. Hands-Free Law, an operator of a motor vehicle will not be able to hold a cell phone or other wireless device while driving on any roads or highways within Rhode Island. If a police officer observes you holding a phone and talking or texting while driving, you will be pulled over and may be fined up to $100. The use of headphones or other accessories that cover both ears also is not allowed. Drivers will be able to use in-car or other hands-free systems or accessories like Bluetooth. This law goes into effect on June 1st, 2018.
Will Massachusetts Soon Follow?
As of this post (05/29/18) there is a proposed hands-free bill going through the Massachusetts Senate and House of Representatives. Texting while driving was made illegal in Massachusetts back in 2010. The current penalties for texting while driving in Massachusetts are:
- 1st offense-$100
- 2nd offense-$250
- 3rd or subs offense-$500
Since 2010 Massachusetts drivers with a Junior Operators License are prohibited from using a mobile device for texting or talking while driving. The penalties being:
- 1st offense-$100, 60 day license suspension & attitudinal course
- 2nd offense-$250, 180 day suspension
- 3rd or subs offense-$500, 1 year suspension
Contact An Experienced MA & RI Car Accident Attorney
If you or a family member have been injured any type of a car accident due to a distracted driver’s negligence, contact us to speak with one of our experienced attorneys. We’ll help you to get the settlement that you deserve.
The Law Offices of Dussault & Zatir
*The above is not to be considered as legal advice. Every case is different and the laws which apply may differ from state to state.