We publish this advisory on New Hampshire’s new “Hands Free Law,” provided by the Merrimack and Londonderry, NH police department. ~Publis
What you need to know:
-No use of hand held electronic devices capable of providing voice or data communication while driving or temporarily halted in traffic for a stop sign or traffic signal or other momentary delays
-This includes cell phones, GPS, tablets, iPods, iPads or other devices that require data entry
-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 except to report an emergency
Statistics supporting a need for the law:
– During the past 4 years, 116 fatal crashes in New Hampshire were caused by distraction
– A driver is 23 times more likely to crash while texting
– Sending or receiving a text, distracts the driver for almost 5 seconds
– At 50 miles per hour, a vehicle will travel longer than the length of a football field during those 5 seconds
Penalties for Violations:
1st Offense $100 fine
2nd offense $250 fine
3rd Offense within 2 years $500 fine
