Mass Criminal Defense.com Shares Information on the New Texting While Driving Massachusetts Law

DEDHAM, MA, October 19, 2010 (Press-News.org) As a result of Massachusetts ongoing commitment to public safety, a law was recently passed citing a ban on texting while driving, and while common sense should tell us that texting while driving is a danger to the driver and those around them, it is evident by passing of this law that Massachusetts drivers just don't get it.

The law that was put into effect as of September 30, 2010 states "Operators cannot use any mobile telephone or handheld device capable of accessing the Internet to write, send, or read an electronic message including text messages, emails, and instant messages or to access the Internet while operating a vehicle. Law applies even if the vehicle is stopped in traffic". This means that even at a stop light or stop sign, texting is illegal. A vehicle must be parked with the engine off in order to be considered safe to text.

The law doesn't stop there, for drivers under the age of 18, the use of any type of cell phone or electronic device including hands-free technology is strictly prohibited, even if at a stop sign. The law and penalties for any offender are going to be enforced by police, as Gov. Patrick said in a recent statement "Driving while texting or using a cell phone carelessly is seriously unsafe."

The penalties for texting while driving range from $100 for the first offense to $500 for the third. For Junior operators, under the age of 18 can expect a fine of $100 for their first offense and loss of license for 60 days. If you find yourself facing these penalties, visit http://www.masscriminaldefense.com for advice on how we can help your case.

The hope with this law is to reduce accidents caused by distracted drivers. However, the law has not been met without skepticism. Who is to say that those who text while driving aren't concealing their texting by keeping their phones out of view, doesn't that pose a greater risk as their eyes are off the road completely? It sure does, and that is where the issue lies. We can only put our faith into other drivers to use their common sense and realize that distracted driving poses a grave danger to themselves and those around them, and in an instance can change
their world forever.

Mass Criminal Defense.com has vowed to keep Massachusetts roadways safe in abiding to the new law. Keep in mind that as always, any reckless driving offense such as weaving across lanes can also result in a criminal charge of negligent operation. If you need legal representation for a Massachusetts criminal offense, visit the site at the following link for more information: http://www.masscriminaldefense.com/criminalcharges.htm.

About Mass Criminal Defense.com
Mass Criminal Defense.com is run by Attorney Elliot Savitz. Attorney Elliot Savitz concentrates his Massachusetts law practice in the area of criminal defense. He is a tireless defender of the rights of the accused, and has achieved hundreds of not guilty verdicts and dismissals for clients accused of almost every criminal charge in Massachusetts.

Website: http://www.masscriminaldefense.com/