Starting today, Tucson drivers will need to put their phones down while behind the wheel from now on as a new hands-free ordinance goes into effect today, Monday, May 1st.
The new law states that no person shall use a mobile device while operating a motor vehicle. Drivers will be able to use a Bluetooth (hands-free) device while driving.
The new cellphone law is a secondary offense; meaning drivers have to be pulled over for another reason for an officer to cite them. Drivers using their cell phones won’t be pulled over individually for that offense.
How much is the fine?
The fine for using your phone without a hand’s free device? $250 for the first offense, $500 for the second offense.
And if you are involved in a car accident while using your cell phone? The fine for this one is big; you could be fined up to $2,500, with a minimum penalty of $500.
If you have to use your cell phone while driving, the use of Bluetooth or the speaker on your phone is acceptable, just don’t pick up your phone. Exceptions include calling 911 or speaking to a hospital or physician.
Red lights are no exception; using your phone at a red light can still earn you a fine.
The new Tucson law is almost identical to the one passed in Oro Valley several months ago.
The State of Arizona still lacks a comprehensive texting and driving ban for all drivers, one of only a very few left in the country. Numerous proposed all driver, texting and driving bans have gone before the Arizona legislature and have failed.
Recently, the governor signed SB 1080 which prohibit teens within the first six months of driving from texting or using a cellphone. The law goes into effect in 2018.
According to Icebike.org, twenty-five percent; one out of every four car accidents in the United States are the result of a driver texting while driving.
