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California Goes Hands-Free

"The simple fact is it's dangerous to talk on your cell phone while driving"

Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger signed SB 1613, which was passed by legislators on August 31, that would prohibit the use of a cell phone in a moving vehicle unless the driver is using a hands free device.

"The simple fact is it's dangerous to talk on your cell phone while driving. CHP data show that cell phones are the number one cause of distracted-driving accidents," said Schwarzenegger. "So getting people's hands off their phones and onto their steering wheels is going to make a big difference in road safety. The 'Hands-Free' cell phone bill will save lives by making our roads safer."

Specifically, SB 1613 will:
  • Prohibit the use of cell phones by drivers unless the driver is using a hands-free device starting July 1, 2008.
  • Allow drivers of commercial vehicles to use push-to-talk phones until July 1, 2011.
  • Allow drivers to make emergency phone calls without using a hands-free device.
  • Allow drivers of emergency response vehicles to use cell phone without a hands-free device.