North Carolina Debates More Fines on Drivers Using Cell Phones

By | March 25, 2011

North Carolina lawmakers already have banned young drivers from using cell phones and everyone else from texting or emails while behind the wheel. Now they’re considering whether to go further.

A commerce committee this week debated a measure that would make using a cell phone while driving illegal unless the motorist can talk hands free using a Bluetooth or a voice-activated phone. Fines would be $100 or more but wouldn’t result in insurance points.

The debate centered again on whether safety and enforcement trumps personal freedoms to dial while driving. Chief bill sponsor Rep. Garland Pierce of Scotland County said the extra limitations are worth protecting the public on the roads. But Rep. Craig Horn of Union County suggested drinking a cup of hot coffee while driving is quite distracting, too.

Topics Personal Auto North Carolina

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