Hands-Free Law Coming In February: Falmouth Police

FALMOUTH, MA — Falmouth police are reminding the public that on Feb. 23, the new hands-free law will go into effect, banning drivers from holding electronic devices. The only exceptions include single touches or swipes to activate hands-free modes like Bluetooth and speakerphone.

The fine for violating this law is $100 for the first offense, $250 for the second offense and $500 for any offense beyond that. Third or more offenses count as surchargeable incidents, police say.

Drivers are not allowed to read or view texts or look at photos or videos.

Drivers will be allowed to use voice commands, voice-to-text features and look at maps on mounted devices.

Device use is a primary offense, meaning police will be able to stop and ticket drivers solely for using their phone. This is unlike the seatbelt law, which is a secondary offense and requires police to observe another offense before pulling a driver over.