August 1 marks one year since Minnesota joined states across the country prohibiting holding a cell phone while driving. Roseville Police remind drivers that they may use voice commands or single touch activation only.
Police officers note that hands-free does not mean distraction free. For greater safety, drivers are encouraged to select music, get directions or make calls before driving the vehicle.
“The law has helped make distracted driving easier to enforce; however, even with the Hands-Free Law, distracted driving continues to be one of the main safety issues on our roads. Distracted drivers are not simply a threat to themselves, they are a danger to everyone else on the road,” said Deputy Police Chief Erika Scheider.
Under the law, drivers may not use phones for video calling, live streaming, gaming, looking at photos, using apps, reading texts, or scrolling or typing on the phone while driving.
Hand-held phone use is allowed to call emergency assistance, if there is an immediate threat to life and safety, or when in an authorized emergency vehicle while performing official duties.
Officers are looking for drivers violating the law. The first ticket is $50 plus court fees and the second and later tickets are $275 plus court fees. Learn more about hands-free driving at HandsFreeMN.org.