Distracted Driving Laws in Massachusetts

1. What is the legal age to have a cell phone while driving in Massachusetts?


In Massachusetts, the legal age for having a cell phone while driving is 16. Drivers under the age of 18 are prohibited from using a cell phone while driving, except in the case of an emergency.

2. Does Massachusetts have a law prohibiting texting while driving?


Yes, Massachusetts has a law that prohibits texting while driving.

3. Is it illegal to use a handheld device while driving in Massachusetts?


Yes, it is illegal to use a handheld device while driving in Massachusetts. According to Massachusetts law, drivers are prohibited from using handheld devices such as cell phones, tablets, and other electronic devices while driving.

4. What are the fines for distracted driving in Massachusetts?


In Massachusetts, the fines for distracted driving vary depending on the severity of the offense. Minor offenses can result in fines of up to $100, while more serious offenses can lead to fines of up to $500 and/or jail time. Additionally, three or more violations within a 24-month period can result in license suspension.

5. Does Massachusetts allow hands-free talking on devices while driving?


Yes, Massachusetts allows hands-free talking on devices while driving.

6. Does Massachusetts have a law prohibiting the use of social media while driving?


Yes, Massachusetts does have a law prohibiting the use of social media while driving. The law, which went into effect on March 23, 2020, makes it illegal to use any device or software to access social networking sites while driving. The penalty for violating the law is a $100 fine and other court costs.

7. Is it illegal to talk on the phone while driving in Massachusetts?


Yes, it is illegal to talk on a hand-held phone while driving in Massachusetts. The law only allows hands-free devices, such as Bluetooth headsets, to be used while driving.

8. Is it illegal to make phone calls while stopped at a red light in Massachusetts?


Yes, it is illegal to make phone calls while stopped at a red light in Massachusetts. According to state law, drivers are prohibited from using handheld devices while driving, including making phone calls.

9. Are there any state laws in Massachusetts requiring hands-free headsets for drivers?


Yes, Massachusetts does have a hands-free law. The law requires that drivers must use hands-free devices when talking on their cell phones while driving in the state.

10. Does Massachusetts have a law prohibiting the use of cell phones while driving with a learner’s permit?


Yes, Massachusetts does have a law prohibiting the use of cell phones while driving with a learner’s permit. According to the Massachusetts Department of Transportation, drivers with a learner’s permit are prohibited from using any type of electronic device while behind the wheel. This includes cell phones, as well as any other type of hand-held device.

11. Is it legal to use GPS navigation systems while driving in Massachusetts?


Yes, it is legal to use GPS navigation systems while driving in Massachusetts.

12. Does Massachusetts have a law against any type of driver distraction?


Yes, Massachusetts does have laws against distracted driving. The laws prohibit any type of distracted driving, including using a hand-held device while behind the wheel. Additionally, novice drivers are prohibited from using any type of electronic device while driving.

13. Are there any restrictions on phone use in school zones in Massachusetts?


Yes, there are restrictions. The law prohibits the use of handheld mobile devices while driving in school zones, including text messaging, emailing, and web browsing. Drivers are allowed to use hands-free devices, however. The law also prohibits the use of mobile devices while stopped at a red light in a school zone, unless it is for emergency purposes. Additionally, the use of mobile devices is strictly prohibited for drivers under the age of 18 in school zones.

14. Does Massachusetts have an administrative license suspension for distracted driving violations?


No, Massachusetts does not have an administrative license suspension for distracted driving violations.

15. Is it illegal to drive without a hands-free device in Massachusetts?


Yes, it is illegal in Massachusetts to drive any motor vehicle while using a mobile telephone or any handheld electronic device without a hands-free device.

16. Does Massachusetts have an underage cellphone law which prohibits those under 18 from talking on their phones or texting while driving?


Yes, Massachusetts does have an underage cellphone law. Drivers under the age of 18 are prohibited from using a cellphone, text messaging device, or other electronic device while driving.

17. Are there any restrictions on eating and drinking while driving in Massachusetts?


Yes. Eating and drinking while driving is prohibited in Massachusetts and is considered a form of distracted driving.

18. What is the penalty for distracted driving violations in Massachusetts?


In Massachusetts, the fines and other penalties associated with distracted driving will vary depending on the violation and the jurisdiction. Generally, the fine for first-time offenders is $100, and they also face a surcharge of $50. A subsequent violation can lead to a $500 fine and a 60-day license suspension. Other potential penalties may include community service, points added to one’s driving record, or even jail time.

19. Are police officers allowed to pull over drivers for using their cell phones in Massachusetts?


Yes. In Massachusetts, it is illegal for drivers to use handheld devices while driving. Police officers have the right to pull over drivers for using their cell phones while driving, and it is considered a citable offense.

20. Does Massachusetts impose any restrictions on children under 18 using their cell phones in the car?


Yes. All drivers under the age of 18 are restricted from using any type of communication device, including cell phones, while operating a motor vehicle in Massachusetts.