What Huntsville’s new ‘hands-free’ law means for drivers

Huntsville’s new “hands-free driving”ordinance goes into effect Jan.1, which means drivers in the Rocket City will need to abide by an amended set of rules regarding cell phone use while driving.

Here’s what the new law means to Huntsville drivers:

Hands-free driving in Huntsville

Starting Jan. 1, Huntsville’s new hands-free ordinance will prohibit motorists from holding any wireless telecommunications device while operating a vehicle.

The ordinance, sponsored by Huntsville City Council President David Little with assistance from the Huntsville Police Department, was voted into law by City Council Oct. 12.

The goal of the legislation is to enable law enforcement to treat a handheld wireless communication device violation as a primary instead of a secondary offense. The current law says police need a secondary reason for stopping a motorist suspected of distracted driving.

Under the new law, it is illegal to do any of the following while operating a motor vehicle:

• Use a wireless telecommunications device to write, send, read or otherwise engage in any text-based communication;
• Watch, record or capture photo or video;
• Engage in voice-based communication while holding a wireless telecommunications device; or
• Physically hold or otherwise support a wireless telecommunications device with any part of their body.

“Making Huntsville safer by decreasing the number of people using wireless telecommunication devices while driving is a no-brainer. When a motorist is focused on something else, such as a phone or GPS, instead of driving, they not only put themselves at risk of serious injury or death, but everyone else on the road as well.”

Kirk Giles, Huntsville Police Chief

Penalties for distracted driving

In the first six months of 2024, first responders will hand out prepared materials with information on the law to drivers during that time to give citizens a chance to get more oriented with the new law.

When the six-month grace period is over, drivers who violate the hands-free law may receive a citation issued by a Huntsville Police officer. The following fines will apply during a 24-month period:

• $50 for a first conviction;
• $100 for a second conviction; and
• $150 for a third conviction and/or community service.

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.

Want more info and updates on what’s happening in and around Huntsville? Follow Hville Blast on Facebook, TikTok and Instagram, and be sure to subscribe to our newsletter.