VIDEO: Distracted Driving in Mass.
The Massachusetts Senate on Jan. 21 is expected to begin debating proposed legislation that would ban handheld cell phone use while driving.
Video: Mass. Considers Hands-Free Phone Legislation
The state already has a driver texting ban on the books, but a new bill seeks to prohibit all handheld mobile device use while driving.
by Staff
January 21, 2016
1 min to read
The bill seeks to prohibit the use of any mobile electronic device while operating a vehicle, unless the driver operates the device hands-free.
A first offense would carry a $100 fine, and a second violation would cost $250. Third and subsequent violations would each carry a $500 fine.
A driver who makes a phone call to report an emergency might qualify for exemption.
A texting-while-driving ban has been in effect in Massachusetts since 2010. Additionally, drivers under 18 are already prohibited from using a cell phone while driving.
State Senator Mark Montigny, who has long pushed for a hands-free phone law in the commonwealth, introduced the bill.
For several years, many safety advocates in Massachusetts have argued that the state's driver texting ban was insufficient and difficult to enforce. To view a WCVB Channel 5 editorial in favor of adopting the hands-free phone law, click on the photo or link below the headline.
More Safety
Reducing Risk by Eliminating Phone Use Behind the Wheel
Distracted driving remains one of the most persistent risks in fleet operations. New approaches focus on removing mobile device use entirely while adding real-time safety support.
Read More →
Distracted Driving in the Age of Smart Tech – Part 2
As distraction risks evolve, fleets are turning to smarter, more connected technologies to better understand what’s happening behind the wheel. Part 2 explores how these tools are helping identify risky behaviors and improve visibility across operations.
Read More →
Data Rights, Risks, and Responsibilities After a Crash
What fleets capture to improve safety can also expose them in litigation, forcing leaders to rethink how data is managed, stored, and shared.
Read More →
From Distraction to Detection: Strengthening Awareness in Fleet Drivers
Distracted driving is often measured by what we can see—phones in hand, eyes off the road. But what about the distractions we can’t? A recent incident raises a bigger question about awareness, attention, and why subtle risks so often go unnoticed.
Read More →
Lytx 2026 Road Safety Report
While serious crashes are declining, a rise in minor incidents and ongoing risk hotspots underscore the need for continued fleet safety investment.
Read More →
Behind-the-Wheel vs. Classroom Training: What Actually Changes Driver Behavior?
Fleets have more driver data than ever, so why isn't behavior changing? Training requires more than reports and coaching — it requires real-world practice.
Read More →
Distracted Driving in the Age of Smart Tech – Part 1
A two-part conversation with Stefan Heck on how AI is transforming the fight against distracted driving. As fleets adopt smarter tools, the focus shifts from reacting to preventing risk. In Part 1, we look at where AI is making an impact for fleets today.
Read More →
Pedestrian Safety Starts With the Driver
More people on foot means more risk for drivers. These pedestrian safety tips can help prevent serious injuries and keep everyone safer on the road.
Read More →
Sponsored•March 30, 2026
Safety by Design: Power and Protection in the Freightliner 114SD Plus
Safer crews. Fewer incidents. Better uptime. Learn how driver-assist technology is changing the way vocational fleets operate.
Read More →
Pedestrian Deaths Drop in First Half of 2025, Marking Largest Decline in Years
An 11% drop in pedestrian fatalities in early 2025 signals progress in U.S. road safety, but elevated death rates and ongoing risks underscore the need for continued action from fleets and policymakers.
Read More →