By Tessa Roy, WPRO News
Officials gathered on a highway overpass to remind drivers that a new hands free law goes into effect next week. Providence Police Chief Hugh Clements shared his simple message: “pay attention to driving and put the phones down.”
“We’ve all been guilty, including myself, and it’s time for change. It’s time for everyone to pay attention to this serious safety challenge that we have in our community,” he said.
As of June 1st, using phones or “hand held wireless communications devices” without a hands free system will be prohibited. Drivers who violate the law will face a $100 fine, but Attorney General Peter Kilmartin said distracted driving can have a heavier cost.
“Our prosecution will pale in comparison to the punishment you will give yourself: the guilt that you see that folks who have done this feel for the rest of their lives on those anniversaries when they have needlessly harmed, killed, and maimed someone,” he said.
Officials noted that this law only applies to adults. Drivers under 18 are already prohibited from using phones even with hands free mechanisms.
First time offenders can have the $100 fine waived if they can show proof of purchasing a hands free device.
