Huntsville hands-free ordinance to be enforced July 1

HUNTSVILLE, Ala. (WHNT) — If you’re caught on your phone while driving, you will pay for it. The City of Huntsville is enforcing its update to the statewide hands-free ordinance on July 1, which is next Monday.

The ordinance aims to promote safety on the roads and lower the impact distracted driving has on emergency services. Community Relations Coordinator of Huntsville Emergency Medical Services Inc., better known as HEMSI, Don Webster claimed that the organization has seen an increase in car crashes calling for emergency medical personnel.

Hands Free law now in effect in Alabama

“We have seen lives lost, families torn apart due to the momentary loss of loved ones in the instances of distracted driving,” Webster said.

The hands-free ordinance is now a first offense, meaning that law enforcement can pull someone over for simply seeing a phone in their hand while they drive. The person being pulled over does not need to be violating any other law, they can be pulled over just for the phone being in their hand. There are some exceptions for when you are legally able to use your phone in the car.

“If you’re stopped to the normal obstruction of traffic, which is basically a red light, you are permitted to look at your phone,” said Huntsville City Council President David Little. I’d still recommend not doing it ’cause you’re losing all your situational awareness. You don’t know what’s going on around you if you’re glued to your phone. And, even, I would say, if the light turns green and all the cars leave and you’re just sitting there, you’ll probably get ticketed for that ’cause now you’re obstructing traffic.”

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Huntsville Police will be fining those who break this law $50 along with a point on their license for their first offense. Previously, police officers were only allowed to give violators a written warning.

Utilize Bluetooth connections or other hands-free services, such as Apple Carplay or Android Auto, that allow the use of many features on your phone without having to hold your phone. Using a phone holder device that can be secured in your car vent or cup holder is also an option to follow directions via your mobile device.

Again, this ordinance will start to be enforced on July 1, 2024.

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