New Hampshire’s Hands-Free Electronic Device law went into effect on July 1, 2015. This means that for drivers on New Hampshire roads, it is now unlawful to use any handheld mobile electronic communication device while operating a motor vehicle. To help mitigate your chances of being stopped and cited under the new law, it is important to remember completely understand these new rules. Prohibited devices include:

• Cell phones
• GPS
• Tablets
• iPods and iPads
• Or any other device that requires data entry

Drivers 18 years of age and older will not be penalized for using Bluetooth or other similar “hands free” electronic devices. Nor will fines be imposed for any individual, adult or minor, dialing 9-1-1 under emergency circumstances. Moreover, any driver who pulls to the side of the road or off the road at a location where it is legal to do so will not be penalized, provided that the vehicle remains stationary.

However, if you are caught texting and driving, talking on your hand-held cell phone while driving, or entering data into a GPS or other device while driving, you will likely be fined. Adults cited for violating the new law will be fined:

• $100 for the first offense
• $250 for a second offense
• And $500 for any subsequent offense within two years

Drivers under the age of 18 are prohibited from using any electronic device while driving, including Bluetooth and other hands-free devices. Minors found violating the law will be subject to the above fine amounts as well as license suspension or revocation.

Using electronic devices while driving creates a significant distraction for the driver and creates dangerous roadway travel conditions. Even speaking to another individual on the phone heightens the risk of collisions. The new law aims to reduce the amount of distractions affecting drivers on the roadways, thus reducing the amount of crashes. To save lives and avoid fines, we urge you to obey these guidelines. However, if you are stopped and cited, calling an attorney who can aid you in the judicial process will ensure that your best interests are served and that you are fully informed of all your options.

Attorney Bob Hemeon offers over thirty years of legal experience with DWI and traffic violations. He is joined by Attorneys Allison Ambrose and Kathrine Lacey who together make up the Criminal Defense team of Wescott Law.