Hands-Free Driving Law
Massachusetts Hands-Free Driving Law Effective 2/23/20
Under guidance from Massachusetts Governor Charlie Baker, the Hands-free Driving Law effective February 23, 2020 now imposes stricter rules and enforceable fines for distracted driving. Since 2010 it’s been illegal to text and drive in the Commonwealth but now a decade later the law addresses other driving distractions such as dialing a number or even holding a phone while idling at a traffic light. When operating a vehicle, at all times, hands-free technology must be utilized. Punishments will be enforced with warnings through March 2020 and fines beginning April 1, 2020. Fines for junior drivers will be the worst.
Texting and Driving Factoids
When it comes to texting and driving there are two indisputable facts: it’s dangerous and illegal in Massachusetts. While more than 23% of motor vehicle accidents involve cell phone use, texting is far more dangerous than just talking or dialing as it takes an inordinate amount of time. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration estimates that checking a text or email while driving at 55 miles per hour is the equivalent of driving the length of a football field blindfolded. Because texting requires a driver’s eyes to be on the phone for lengthy periods, this specific activity that has been outlawed in Massachusetts and many other states nationwide.
Because of the length of time a driver’s eyes are not on the road in car accidents caused by texting, injuries sustained in texting while driving accidents have the potential to be catastrophic and life altering. While a minor fender bender in a supermarket parking lot is unlikely to be harmful, texting accidents often occur on highways with vehicles moving at a high rate of speed which can result in innocent people suffering grievous harm.
If you’ve been injured in an accident caused by texting in Massachusetts, it’s possible that the quality of your life will be drastically impacted; your ability to earn a living, to enjoy a pain-free life, or to participate in the activities you love. Consulting with a Massachusetts attorney, one who understands how the court system in the Commonwealth functions, is a critical step in receiving full compensation from the at-fault driver and the driver’s insurance company.
Attorney Steven T. Snow of Mashpee, on Cape Cod, has been a Massachusetts lawyer since 1991. Prior to establishing his own firm, Attorney Snow worked for a law firm that represented insurance companies and their insured drivers. He is knowledgeable as to the tactics employed by insurance companies to offer minimal settlements to injured people. As his past verdicts and settlements demonstrate, he is a resourceful advocate for his clients.
If you, or someone you love, has been injured in a car accident involving texting, please call today at (508) 477-7100. You are entitled to a free initial consultation.
Attorney Steven T. Snow PC
Steven T. Snow worked his way through law school as a retail stockbroker with Merrill Lynch. After earning his law degree from the Thomas M. Cooley Law School in 1988, Attorney Snow worked for a Boston law firm that represented insurance companies. This experience provided him with an understanding of exactly how insurance companies value personal injury claims, and how they prepare for trial. He uses this knowledge to anticipate and counter his opponent’s defense strategies ensuring his clients obtain a judgment on their behalf. Attorney Snow bodily injuries and wrongful death claims through mediation and arbitration and trial.
Regardless of the type of injury you may have sustained, or the obstacles you may be facing, Attorney Steven T. Snow has the experience and skills to secure the best possible results in your case.
