What is the New Hands-Free Law?

The city of Austin is reminding Austin drivers of the new hands-free ordinance, which prohibits the use of all hand-held devices for anyone driving a vehicle or riding a bicycle. The law went into effect January 1, 2015. A violation of this ordinance carries a $500 fine.

The use of hand-held devices while driving is a leading cause of distracted driving car accidents. Texas had 94,943 total distracted driving accidents in 2013, a 4 percent increase over the previous year.

What Hand-Held Devices Are Not Permitted for Drivers in Austin?

The following is a list of some of the portable devices that could lead to a fine if used while operating a vehicle:

• Cell phone use. This goes for talking, texting and surfing the web. The city of Austin is emphasizing the dangers of texting while driving. Texting is only allowed if you are at a complete stop.
• Portable music player, like an MP3 player
• Laptop computer
• Pager
• GPS or other navigation system
• Electronic gaming device
• Personal digital assistant

Hands-free systems will allow the use of some of these devices. These systems include Bluetooth, headphones or a hands-free GPS system.

The one exception for using a cell phone while driving is in an emergency, such as when it is necessary to call 9-1-1 or 3-1-1.

Need an Auto Accident Attorney from Austin?

If a distracted driver has caused serious injury to you or someone you know, then contact our car crash lawyer at The Law Offices of Aaron Allison today. We have dedicated our lives to helping injured victims in the Austin area.

[Did You Know? Distracted driving accidents increased by 34,000 from 2011 to 2012.]

The Law Offices of Aaron Allison – Austin Personal Injury Attorney

Source: http://www.austintexas.gov/handsfree