Digital Trends

As of today it will be illegal to use a cell phone while driving in California, unless you use a hands-free device — and CHP warns it will be aggressively enforcing the law over the holiday.

If you’re going to California or the holiday weekend, or if you live there, better be careful with your cell phone. Today’s the day a new state law comes into effect, making it illegal to use your phone while driving unless it’s equipped with a hands-free device. Break that law and it’s $20 for the first offence and $50 for the second time.

The California Highway Patrol will be aggressively enforcing the law over the holiday weekend, and governor Arnold Schwarzenegger has announced:

“The simple fact is it’s dangerous to talk on your cell phone while driving. CHP data show that cell phones are the number one cause of distracted-driving accidents. So getting people’s hands off their phones and onto their steering wheels is going to make a big difference in road safety. The ‘Hands-Free’ cell phone bill will save lives by making our roads safer.”

According to Vnunet the sales of Bluetooth and other hands-free devices have soared over the weekend. But one company, online seller Headsets.com, has drawn controversy by offering free headsets – however, they only give them to those who’ve already been fined for breaking the law.

In a statement the company said:

“Frankly, we don't think driving while talking even on a headset is as safe as putting the phone down and focusing on your driving. But if you are going to talk on your phone, we want you to be safe.”