What is the name of your state (only U.S. law)? California
I'm trying to understand California Vehicle Code 23123(a), but I can't seem to find any kind of legal definition for "hands-free". How can a law be obeyed or enforced if the central point of the law has not been defined and reasonably understood by all?
It's clear that "hands-free" does not mean that you're unable to have any contact with the hand held phone whatsoever. You're allowed to hold the phone to dial a phone number or lookup a name. You're also allowed to use the speakerphone, and with every phone I've seen, you have to physically push a button on the phone itself to switch over to speakerphone mode. Also with a speakerphone, it’s understood that you’ll have to press a buttons on the phone to both answer and end a call.
So, what does “hands-free” mean with respect to this law? Does it only apply to listening and talking? Is it legal to have a cell phone in your hand for any reason (besides writing, sending or reading a text-based communication, which 23123.5(a) prohibits) up until the point that you listen or talk, and then it becomes illegal?
I'm trying to understand California Vehicle Code 23123(a), but I can't seem to find any kind of legal definition for "hands-free". How can a law be obeyed or enforced if the central point of the law has not been defined and reasonably understood by all?
It's clear that "hands-free" does not mean that you're unable to have any contact with the hand held phone whatsoever. You're allowed to hold the phone to dial a phone number or lookup a name. You're also allowed to use the speakerphone, and with every phone I've seen, you have to physically push a button on the phone itself to switch over to speakerphone mode. Also with a speakerphone, it’s understood that you’ll have to press a buttons on the phone to both answer and end a call.
So, what does “hands-free” mean with respect to this law? Does it only apply to listening and talking? Is it legal to have a cell phone in your hand for any reason (besides writing, sending or reading a text-based communication, which 23123.5(a) prohibits) up until the point that you listen or talk, and then it becomes illegal?