The Alabama Hands Free Law, which came into effect on July 1, 2019, is a significant step towards improving road safety by addressing the growing issue of distracted driving. With the rise of mobile phone usage, driving distractions have become a major concern across the United States, and Alabama is no exception. This law was enacted to reduce accidents caused by distracted driving, ensuring that drivers focus on the road instead of their mobile devices. In this article, we will take an in-depth look at the details of the Alabama Hands-Free Law, its key provisions, exceptions, penalties, and much more.

What Is the Alabama Hands-Free Law?

The Alabama Hands-Free Law prohibits drivers from holding, using, or manipulating their mobile phones or electronic devices while operating a motor vehicle. The law aims to reduce the dangers associated with distracted driving, specifically related to the use of mobile phones.

Key Provisions of the Law

• No Handheld Use: Drivers are not allowed to hold, operate, or even manipulate their mobile devices while driving. This includes actions such as texting, calling, or browsing the internet on a mobile phone.
• Hands-Free Mode: The law allows drivers to use their mobile devices if they are in hands-free mode. This includes voice commands, Bluetooth devices, or mobile phone mounts. Drivers can make calls, use GPS, or even stream music as long as they are not physically holding the phone.
• Texting While Driving: Texting while driving is a significant form of distracted driving, and under this law, it is explicitly prohibited unless the device is in hands-free mode.

Why Was the Alabama Hands-Free Law Introduced?

Distracted driving has become a serious public safety issue across the country. In Alabama, traffic accidents related to distracted driving were on the rise, with mobile phone use being a leading contributor to such accidents. The law was introduced to curb the increasing number of accidents caused by drivers who were texting, calling, or otherwise interacting with their devices while driving.

The goal of the Alabama Hands-Free Law is to make the roads safer by ensuring that drivers keep their focus on the task of driving, rather than getting distracted by their phones. With this law in place, Alabama lawmakers hope to reduce accidents and fatalities related to distracted driving.

Exceptions to the Alabama Hands-Free Law

While the Alabama Hands-Free Law generally prohibits the use of handheld mobile devices, there are several important exceptions to the rule. Understanding these exceptions is key to ensuring compliance with the law.

Emergency Calls

• Emergency Situations: The law allows drivers to make or receive emergency phone calls if they are using their mobile phone for such purposes. If a driver needs to contact 911 in an emergency, they can use their phone without being in hands-free mode.

Using Devices While Parked

• Parked Vehicles: Drivers who are completely stopped (such as at a traffic light or in traffic) are allowed to use their mobile devices, but only if the vehicle is not in motion. This means that once the vehicle starts moving again, the driver must comply with the hands-free requirements.

Mobile Device Mounts

• Hands-Free Mode: The law allows drivers to use mobile devices when they are mounted on a dashboard mount, windshield mount, or similar device holder. As long as the phone is securely mounted and the driver is using voice commands or Bluetooth, this is allowed.

Use of Voice Assistants

• Voice Commands: If a driver uses voice commands to make calls or use apps on their phone, it is considered hands-free and is permissible under the law. For example, activating Siri on an iPhone or Google Assistant on Android devices while driving is allowed, as long as the driver is not physically holding the phone.

Penalties for Violating the Alabama Hands-Free Law

Like many traffic laws, violations of the Alabama Hands-Free Law come with consequences. Drivers who are caught using their mobile phones in a way that violates the law may face fines and other penalties.

Fines for Violations

• First Offense: The fine for the first violation of the Alabama Hands-Free Law is $25. While this may seem relatively low, repeated violations can lead to more significant fines and penalties.
• Second Offense: If a driver is caught violating the law a second time, the fine increases to $50.
• Third and Subsequent Offenses: For the third and any subsequent violations, the fine is $75. Additionally, repeated offenses could lead to increased enforcement measures.

No Points on Driver’s License

One of the important things to note is that the Alabama Hands-Free Law does not carry points that would be added to a driver’s license for a violation. However, repeat offenders may face increased scrutiny from law enforcement.

How Is the Alabama Hands-Free Law Enforced?

Law enforcement in Alabama is tasked with monitoring and enforcing the Hands-Free Law. Police officers have the authority to stop drivers if they observe them using their mobile phones in violation of the law.

• Pulling Over Drivers: Officers can stop drivers if they witness them holding or using their phones while driving. This makes it essential for drivers to be aware of the law and avoid distractions behind the wheel.
• Secondary Offense: The Alabama Hands-Free Law is typically treated as a secondary offense, which means that officers must first pull over a driver for another violation, such as speeding, before issuing a ticket for using a handheld device.

Impact of the Alabama Hands-Free Law on Road Safety

The introduction of the Alabama Hands-Free Law has had a significant impact on road safety in the state. While it’s difficult to quantify the precise effect of the law, early reports and studies have shown that it has helped raise awareness about the dangers of distracted driving. Traffic accidents and fatalities related to mobile phone use may decrease over time as more people follow the hands-free guidelines.

In addition, the law encourages the use of Bluetooth devices and other hands-free technologies, which help drivers maintain full attention on the road while still being able to communicate or use navigation apps. This could lead to long-term changes in how people interact with their mobile devices while driving.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use my phone for GPS under the Alabama Hands-Free Law?

Yes, you can use your phone for GPS as long as it is in hands-free mode. Ensure that the device is mounted securely, and use voice commands or Bluetooth to interact with the device.

2. What if I need to text someone urgently?

Under the Alabama Hands-Free Law, texting while driving is prohibited. If you need to text someone urgently, you should pull over to a safe location before using your mobile device.

3. Does the law apply to all drivers in Alabama?

Yes, the Alabama Hands-Free Law applies to all drivers in Alabama, including visitors and out-of-state drivers. It is important for anyone driving in Alabama to comply with the law.

4. Can I use my phone at a red light?

No, you cannot use your phone while your vehicle is stopped at a red light. However, if you are in a completely parked position, such as in a parking lot, you can use your phone without violating the law.

5. Does the law apply to drivers of commercial vehicles?

Yes, the hands-free requirements apply to all drivers, including those operating commercial vehicles.

Conclusion

The Alabama Hands-Free Law is a critical step towards reducing distractions on the road and promoting safer driving. By limiting the use of mobile devices while driving and encouraging hands-free technology, the law aims to protect drivers, passengers, and pedestrians alike. Fines and penalties serve as a deterrent for those who fail to comply, and the growing awareness of distracted driving helps foster safer habits on the road. If you are driving in Alabama, it is important to stay focused on the road and always use your mobile device in a hands-free manner to avoid penalties and, most importantly, reduce the risk of accidents.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article about the Alabama Hands-Free Law is for general informational purposes only. It is not intended as legal advice. Please consult legal professionals or local authorities for specific guidance regarding the law’s application and any legal concerns you may have.