As of January 1, 2010, motorists in Oregon should think twice about answering a call or placing a text message while driving (yes, even if you're at a red light.) The new law "prohibits all drivers from using a mobile communication device while operating a motor vehicle. A mobile communication device is defined as "a text messaging device or a wireless, two-way communication device designed to receive and transmit voice or text communication."
Those over 18 may legally use a wireless device with a hands-free accessory, as long as both hands are free for driving. If you're under 18, you'll need to park your vehicle before using the phone legally.
Do you think this law will affect whether you talk and/or text while driving?
Comments
I find hands free conversing to be extremely distracting, especially a tense or heated discussion. It eliminates the mechanics of holding, dialing, etc but the risk of being distracted is still there for me.
People need to take some responsibility and just Don’t Drive and Talk/Text. HANG UP AND DRIVE!! I might add that it just shows how self-centered some people have become. Do you Really think that You are that important that you have to Chat/Text all of the time? If you were, you would have a chauffeur. Pull-over… Forget the cheap little fine. The fine needs to be higher, with License Suspension for the second offense. Loss of License for the third offense.