Texting, emailing, Googling, calling – New Hampshire residents do these things all the time, and sometimes behind the wheel. But, that looks likely to change with a signature from the Governor.
The New Hampshire Union Leader reports that Governor Maggie Hassan is likely to sign a bill that would ban the hand-held use of cellphones (or other electronic devices) while driving.
States like New Jersey, Maryland, Delaware and Connecticut have already banned hand-held cell phones behind the wheel.
New Hampshire drivers would be allowed to “use hands-free speaker phone, BlueTooth or on-board car phones.” But, under the bill young drivers will have a stricter set of laws.
Those drivers under the age of 18 won’t be allowed to use any device for any circumstance. The only exception? A 911 call. Delaware, Connecticut, Massachusetts, New Jersey, and Rhode Island also enforce stricter cell phone bans for young drivers. In total, 37 states already ban all cell phone use for new drivers.
The stats
Nationally, 3,360 deaths were the result of distracted driving in 2011. Between 2010 and 2013, distracted driving caused 124 deaths in the state of New Hampshire.
Currently, New Hampshire does have a ban on texting while driving. Even though the ban exists, it’s not enforced at the rate of offense.
But, don’t expect any changes in the immediate future. Because it takes time to educate drivers, the ban on hand-held devices wouldn’t be in effect until July of next year.
The Union Leader also points out that over the last three years, distracted driving is a factor in 27% of fatal accidents – and caused 116 deaths. So, it’s no surprise that the bill has a lot of support in the state.
The details:
Goes into effect: July 1, 205
First-time offender: Fine of $100
Second offense: Fine of $250
After 2nd offense: Fine of $500 each time, in effect for 2 years after your 2nd offense