Cell Phone Laws

I am sure everyone has heard of this but thought it should be included in this blog.  For those of you that are not hands free you don't know what you have been missing.  Having a bluetooth in my car has been the most liberating experience since having my license.  I am no longer stuck to the phone and with the shape of phone now there is no way to hold them between your shoulder. 

Here is some info about the new law:

• A new cell phone law goes into effect on October 1, making it a primary offense to be holding your phone and driving. (police officers will be able to pull drivers over just for talking on a cell phone without a hands-free device)
• Only 12 states and Washington, D.C., Puerto Rico, Guam, and the U.S. Virgin Islands prohibit drivers from using hand-held phones. 
• Texting while driving is already a primary offense in the state.

Changes to Maryland Traffic Law Cell Phones and Seatbelts Effective Oct. 1:
Driver using hands to use handheld telephone while motor vehicle is in motion will be a primary traffic offense:

• 1st Offense is an $83.00 FINE, including court costs
• 2nd Offense is a $140.00 FINE
• 3rd and Subsequent Offense is a $160.00 FINE
  
  If the violation contributed to an accident, THREE (3) POINTS will also be assessed in addition to the fine.

Driver using hands to use handheld telephone while operating a commercial motor vehicle, first offense is a $290.00 fine and also a primary traffic offense.