HANDS FREE … WHAT DOES IT MEAN?
Avoid fines of up to $500.00. The hands-free initiative aims to increase safety by decreasing distractions while driving.
What’s NOT ALLOWED Using portable devices while driving in Austin will be a citable offense as of January 1, 2015.
Vehicles & Bicycles – The Law
Ordinance No. 20140828-041 amending section 12-1-34 of the City Code prohibits the use of all hand-held portable electronic devices while operating a vehicle or bicycle. This includes:
- mobile phone
- personal digital assistant
- MP3 or other hand-held music player
- electronic reading device
- laptop computer
- pager
- broadband personal communication device
- GPS or navigation system
- electronic gaming device
- portable computing device
No Texting, No Distractions
Ordinance No. 20091022-028 and Ordinance No. 20091217-090, commonly known as the texting-while driving ban, prohibit the use of phones, tablets, or other devices used to compose an electronic message while moving. Distractions include:
- mobile phone texting
- using a cell phone for any reason
- eating and drinking
- talking to passengers
- grooming
- reading, including maps
- use of a navigation system
- watching a video
- adjusting a radio, CD player or MP3 Player
Exceptions ALLOWED
- In the event of an emergency, such as dialing 911 or 311 to report a crime or accident, hand-held cell phone use is tolerated.
- Drivers may send or compose messages while at a complete stop.
For more details visit: http://www.austintexas.gov/handsfree
