CONNECTIONS – Thursday’s edition features a look at current events; Salem State University Political Science Chairperson Dr. Daniel Mulcare on elections; Micaela Guglielmi talks up the Salem Book Swap; Rick Moore interviews Gloucester’s Fire Chief, Eric Smith; and Tim Kearns talks microbrews in the Beer Pod
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Follow-up from Tuesday’s show – Hands Free Device News
Newburyport Police Department Remind Residents of Upcoming Hands-Free Law for Drivers
NEWBURYPORT — City Marshal Mark Murray would like to remind residents of the upcoming hands-free law for drivers and that officers will available to educate drivers about the law once it goes into effect.
On Feb. 23, An Act Requiring the Hands-Free Use of Mobile Telephones While Driving will go into effect prohibiting drivers from using cellphones and other hand-held devices while operating a vehicle. There will be a grace period through March 31 in which drivers will get a warning for their first violation rather than a fine.
The law states that no motor vehicle operator may use electronic devices while driving unless the technology is being used hands-free. Operators found to be texting, dialing phone numbers or using a phone with their hands in any capacity while driving will be fined.
“This law requires drivers to put down their phones to pay attention to the road,” Marshal Murray said. “We would also like to remind everyone that hands-free is still not risk-free, so we always recommend putting away your phone to focus solely on driving. We will be doing directed patrols throughout the city starting on the Feb. 23 to educate drivers about the new law as well.”
Operators are permitted to use hands-free technology including Bluetooth, “single tap or swipe” to activate or deactivate hands-free mode, navigation technology mounted to the car’s dash and phone use in emergency situations. Drivers may use their phones if they are stationary and not in an active traffic lane.
The penalty for drivers who are found guilty of violating the hands-free law is a $100 fine for a first offense, a $250 fine for a second offense and a $500 fine for a third or subsequent offense. Operators who commit a second or subsequent offense are also required to complete an educational program focused on distracted driving prevention. A third or subsequent violation will count as a surchargeable incident which can affect the driver’s insurance rates.
The act also includes a requirement that law enforcement agencies report data on violations. The data collected by law enforcement will be available to the public.
The law does not apply to first responders who are on duty and driving emergency service vehicles.
Politics – Wednesday Night Democratic Debate Highlights
