Hands Free Tennessee
We already knew not to transmit or read text messages while driving. But as of July 1, 2019, Tennessee Code Annotated section 55-8-199 goes a step further in banning the use of a wireless telecommunications device while operating a motor vehicle on any road or highway in our great state. The bill passed both houses of the General Assembly on April 30, 2019, and Governor Bill Lee signed it into law on May 21 of this year.
Here are some details from the Cloud Nine Higher publisher and attorney:
- Violating the new law is a Class C misdemeanor and may result in a fine of $50 for the first offense. The fine may increase to $100 if an accident results from the violation or if it is the offender's third or subsequent offense. If you violate this statute in a work zone where Department of Transportation employees or contract construction workers are present or in a marked school zone, the fine is $200.
- There is no "Bluetooth" exception to be found here. Many vehicles now are equipped with technology where a text message may be read on the sound system touch pad. The smart money says that you will not be cited for reading a message on your Bluetooth system. There could even be an amendment to the law to accommodate this in the coming years.
- Many ride share drivers take advantage of a prominent exception to the rules: The wireless telecommunications may be lawfully mounted on the windshield, dashboard, or center console in a manner that does not hinder the driver's view of the road.
- Another worthy exception to the new law is being lawfully stopped or parked in your vehicle. So just be safe, pull over to an appropriate spot, and conduct your business on your iPhone or Android device. You are good to go.
- In lieu of the fines I mention above, a first-time offender may attend and complete a driver education course.
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