This new year, the state has set a resolution for you! The new bill, AB 1785, goes into effect on January 1st of the new year. It will restrict cell phone usage while driving to such that drivers may not have their phones in their hands at all whilst operating a motor vehicle. The law also indicates that car-mounted devices are allowed, but they only permit one swipe or tap on the device. Here’s what the law says according to the DMV:
“Use of Electronic Wireless Devices (AB 1785, Quirk): Driving a motor vehicle while holding and operating a handheld wireless telephone or a wireless electronic communications device will be prohibited, unless the device is mounted on a vehicle’s windshield or is mounted/affixed to a vehicle’s dashboard or center console in a manner that does not hinder the driver’s view of the road. The driver’s hand may only be used to activate or deactivate a feature or function on the device with the motion of a single swipe or tap of the driver’s finger, but not while holding it. The law does not apply to manufacturer-installed systems that are embedded in a vehicle.”
Rules like these are no surprise to automotive service professionals like us, who see cars roll in damaged on a regular basis because of cellphone-related accidents. According to the CDC, 69% of drivers report using their cell phone and 31% said they use a mobile app to send an email. Don’t be the cause of an accident- get a hands-free device or just wait to respond until you reach your destination. But if you find yourself in an accident, at-fault or not, let us know so we can fix you up! 925-779-9242.