Hands-free cellphones in cars required by July 1, 2008

Starting July 1, 2008, California drivers cannot legally operate a motor vehicle while using a wireless phone unless the phone is specifically designed to allow hands-free talking while driving. The fine for using a hand-held phone while driving will be $20 for the first offense and $50 for any subsequent offense.

The law allows a few exceptions, such as emergency calls to a law enforcement agency, health care provider, fire department or other emergency services agency. Emergency services professionals may use a wireless telephone while operating an authorized emergency vehicle on duty.

Any driver with a cellphone in hand while driving after July 1, 2008 can be pulled over by a law enforcement official. At this time, the officer can conduct other tests which may seem reasonable, such as a DUI test. 

Motorists have a year and a half to equip their vehicles with a hands-free phone.

Information for this article was provided by Douglas Ridley, founding partner and head of Drescher, Quisenberry, Ridley & Shiffman LLP, a fullservice law firm with offices in Agoura Hills. For more information, call (818) 991-2919.