Experienced drivers are often seen driving one-handed, but this is about to change in a southern state due to a new hands-free law. Guiding a car using only one hand is a normal thing for many drivers. This act is often associated with more hours behind the wheel, but it’s actually also used by young drivers to either show off, or it’s just the way they absorbed the teachings of a parent. Now, as states are putting stricter measures in place to make sure the roads are a safer place, using a handheld cellphone while driving won’t be acceptable.
Distracted driving nuances: There’s more than meets the eye
Distracted driving remains a serious concern on U.S. roads. With thousands of people losing their lives in traffic incidents in the past couple of years, almost every state is creating bills to prevent drivers from committing mistakes. Using cellphones is no longer allowed in many states, parking in the left lane, and going over the speed limit. Now, it’s time to take another step toward eradicating distracted driving from the country.
One-handed driving could be associated with distracted driving, as guiding with only one hand is a sign that other things could be happening, such as texting or trying to get a task done on the way to work/school. It could also mean that the person is simply not with both hands on the steering wheel for personal reasons, like thinking it’s not necessary in some regions, like highways or traffic inside the city. Now, drivers in South Carolina will have to put their phones down.
No more side quests while driving: Hands off the phone
Starting September 1, South Carolina’s Hands-Free Law states that drivers won’t be able to scroll or text behind the wheel while holding their phone. The state’s new hands-free driving law is officially taking effect to end distracted driving. At first, anyone caught holding a cellphone while driving – whether talking, texting, or watching videos – will get a warning for the first six months. After February 28, though, the consequences will get real: violators will face fines.
Robert Woods, director of the Department of Public Safety, said at the bill signing that the state wants drivers to get used to the new rules first. South Carolina becomes the 33rd state to pass a hands-free driving law. Gov. Henry McMaster signed it back in May, and officials celebrated at the Statehouse. Other states like Pennsylvania, Florida, and more are also adapting to similar bills (in cases like this, infringers even have speed limiters).
Thousands of crashes happen every year: Distracted driving must end
Distracted driving isn’t a small problem – it contributes to more than 20,000 collisions every year in the state. Woods believes this law will save lives. Woods said the troopers and officers are working with local police and will enforce the new hands-free law. Some things are still allowed: hands-free calls, voice-to-text messages, and using a phone when parked, reporting an accident, or during a medical emergency. Note that holding a phone at a red light is not permitted under the law, and the Department of Public Safety encourages people to keep phones out of hand – even at a stoplight.
The fines’ system: More infractions mean more penalties
Fines start at $100 for the first offense. A second or later offense costs $200 plus two points on your license – penalties meant to get drivers’ attention and change habits. To spread the word, the state will put up signs along roads and on digital displays along interstates. Visitors will also see reminders at welcome centers thanks to the Department of Parks, Recreation, and Tourism – measures like this could be used for other states implementing bills like this, too.