Have You Heard? NH New Hands-Free Electronic Device Law in Effect July 1, 2015

July 1, 2015||inPersonal Insurance|auto insurance, cell phone, hands free, personal insurance


Wayne Texeira, Marketing Director, CFMP, AINS, AIS, API

New Hampshire is the latest state to establish a law that prohibits the use of hand-held electronic devices, effective July 1, 2015.

What Does This Mean?

  • You may not use hand-held electronic devices capable of providing voice or data communication while driving or temporarily halted in traffic for a stop sign, traffic signal, or other momentary delays.
  • This includes cell phones, GPS, tablets, iPods, iPads, or other devices that require data entry.
Have you heard? NH new Hands-Free Electronic Device Law in effect July 1
Click here to submit an inquiry to Murphy Insurance or call us at 800 222 8711
  • Emergency calls to 911 or other public safety agencies will be allowed
  • Bluetooth or other hands-free electronic devices will be allowed
  • One-hand non-cellular 2-way radio use will be allowed
  • Teen drivers under the age of 18 will not be allowed to use any electronic devices (hand-held or not) except to report an emergency. Anyone violating this will be subject to penalties and license suspension or revocation.
  • If your vehicle lacks Bluetooth functionality, auto service centers can install after-market systems, or over-the-ear devices can be purchased at retailers such as Staples, Best Buy, or your cell phone carrier.

Source:  www.handsfreenh.com

Penalties for Violations

The penalties are a $100 fine for the first offense, a $250 fine for a second offense, and a $500 fine for a third offense within two years. Additional penalty assessments will be added to the fines.

Cell Phone Laws in Other States

If you’re going to drive in another state, be sure you know the cell phone driving laws that apply. You can find more information about specific state requirements online. One resource is the Governors Highway Safety Association. http://www.ghsa.org/html/stateinfo/laws/cellphone_laws.html

  • Fourteen states, Washington D.C., Puerto Rico, Guam, and the U.S. Virgin Islands, prohibit drivers from using hand-held cell phones.
  • 38 states and Washington D.C. ban all cell phone use by novice drivers
  • 46 states, Washington D.C., Puerto Rico, Guam, and the U.S. Virgin Islands ban text messaging for all drivers

In Massachusetts, except for new and public transportation drivers, hand-held cell phones are allowed while driving. However, all drivers are prohibited from texting. Maine is similar to Massachusetts, except that there is no complete ban on cell phone use for public transportation drivers. Connecticut, New Hampshire, and Vermont all have hand-held device bans. Maine and Rhode Island have bans on texting, but using a hand-held cell phone is still allowed.

Source:  www.ghsa.org

Consider Curbing Your Use Even if it’s NOT the Law…Yet.

Even though hands-free devices are still allowed in all states for experienced drivers, there are still risks. Keep in mind that “hands-free” is not “risk-free.” According to the National Safety Council, an estimated 1 in 4 car crashes involve cell phone use.

And, even if a hand-held ban doesn’t yet exist in your state (or where you’re driving), it’s worth considering why these laws exist. It seems to be human nature to take chances and sometimes hold on to an “it won’t happen to me” mentality. It can and does happen to people like you who took a chance every day. Perhaps these stats will change your perception:

  • Dialing a phone number increases the risk of a crash by three times
  • A driver is 23 times more likely to crash while texting
  • Sending or receiving a text distracts a driver for 5 seconds…at 50 mph, that’s like driving the length of a football field blindfolded
  • Drivers in their 20s make up 27% of distracted drivers in fatal crashes.

Source: www.handsfreenh.com

Please be safe on the road…your life and the lives of other drivers depend on your safe driving.

Read Other Blog Posts

Wood-burning Stove

Wood-burning Stove Safety

The top source of fires in American homes comes from fuel-burning appliances—such as a wood-burning stove. Consider the following guidance to ensure safe operation of your stove—keeping you, your family and your home protected against the risk of a fire.
Read more
Outside lightbulbs

How to Reduce Winter Utility Bills

When outside temperatures begin to drop, one of the most costly consequences is the increased energy it takes to maintain a comfortable home temperature. With this in mind, consider these tips to reduce your monthly utility bills in the winter.
Read more
Car in snow

Tips for Driving in Extreme Weather

Driving in adverse weather conditions can be downright nerve-wracking. It can also be very dangerous. Being aware of how to modify your driving during heavy rain, snow and fog can help you stay calm and safe during your journey. Consider the following tips when driving in extreme weather.
Read more
Ice Dams A Winter Challenge for Homeowners

Ice Dams: A Winter Challenge for Homeowners

Read our blog post, Ice Dams: A Winter Challenge for Homeowners for some great tips on preventing ice dams and what to do in the case of ice dams on your roof. Ice dams are more than just an inconvenience—they can cause significant damage to your home. While prevention is the best strategy, ice dams can still form despite your efforts, so having a response plan is crucial. Ice dams occur when attic air warms to above freezing, causing snow on the roof to melt. As the water runs down the roof and reaches the colder edges, it refreezes, creating an ice dam. These dams block water from draining off the roof, causing it to pool and seep under shingles, into the attic, or along exterior walls.
Read more
Driving car

Does My Insurance Cover Pothole Damage?

Although potholes may be unavoidable, vehicular damage doesn’t have to be. Consider the following guidelines for avoiding pothole-related damage.
Read more
Frozen Pipes

How to Help Prevent Frozen Pipes

Frozen pipes can be an unnoticed danger, often going undetected until the weather begins to thaw. Here are some tips on how avoid frozen pipes and what to do if a pipe freezes.
Read more
Fireworks

New Year, New You: Top 10 Personal Insurance Tips

As the new year kicks off, it’s a great time to check in on your personal insurance. Life changes quickly and making sure your coverage keeps up can save you stress down the road. Here are 10 helpful tips to help you feel confident and protected this year.
Read more
People celebrating

Hosting Holiday Parties Responsibly: Tips for Personal & Business Gatherings

While it’s easy to get caught up in the fun, taking some simple precautions can prevent mishaps and protect you from unexpected situations. Here are some practical tips for hosting a safe and successful holiday party, with a focus on being prepared.
Read more
Holiday Decorations

10 Tips for Disaster-Free Holidays

From mishaps in the kitchen to accidents involving decorations, a little preparation can go a long way in ensuring your holidays stay merry and bright. Here are ten tips to help you enjoy a safe and disaster-free holiday season.
Read more

Visit Our Auto Insurance Page

Auto Insurance

At Murphy Insurance, we are here to assist you in obtaining the appropriate auto insurance. Choosing the appropriate auto insurance coverage can be overwhelming. Every insurance company has its unique offerings, making it challenging to compare options effectively. That’s where we shine. We simplify the process by helping you evaluate provider and policy choices, seek out discounts, and optimize your car insurance within your budget constraints. Ultimately, our goal is to provide you with peace of mind, knowing that you and your loved ones are well-protected. Visit our auto insurance page to learn more.