City’s new ‘Hands Free’ ordinance takes effect July 1
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The Huntsville City Council and Huntsville Police Department have received feedback regarding the city’s new “Hands Free” driving ordinance, which prohibits mobile phone use while driving. The enforcement of the new law goes into effect July 1.
City officials have had to make some clarifications to the public about the law and even amend the wording of the law since its passage. Here’s what to know:
Promoting ‘hands free’ cell phone use while driving
The amended ordinance prohibiting the use of handheld devices while operating a motor vehicle will go into effect on July 1, and city leaders say they are hopeful it will lead to increased accountability and a decrease in distracted driving crashes.
The ordinance, which took effect Jan. 1, upgraded violations from a secondary to a primary offense, allowing officers to stop a driver when they see a violation and issue a citation. The first six months of the ordinance have served as an educational period for drivers.
This updated ordinance has a single purpose: to make Huntsville’s roads safer. The goal is to change behavior, not to punish our citizens, by placing a greater value on human life than the device in our hands. No call, text, social media post, or any of the countless ways we use our phones is worth a life or serious injury.”
David Little, Huntsville City Council
Certain individuals are exempt from the ordinance, including emergency services professionals, those dialing or texting 911 to report an emergency or seek help, individuals who are using wireless telecommunication devices while legally parked, physicians responding to an emergency medical situation and more.
Preventing distracted driving
Like the seat belt laws of the 1960s, the hands-free ordinance requires individuals to adopt new habits to protect themselves and others, reflecting a shift toward personal accountability. City leaders encourage drivers to set the tone and stay off the phone.
“This proactive measure remains a step in the right direction to prevent distracted driving and improve public safety. The City of Huntsville is proud to join other cities nationwide in making our roadways safe for everyone.”
Chief Kirk Giles, Huntsville Police Department
The following fines will apply during a 24-month period:
- $50 for a first conviction
- $100 for a second conviction
- $150 for a third conviction and/or community service.
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