Countdown to New York State's Hands-Free Legislation:Consumers Must Take Steps Now to Comply
ORANGEBURG, N.Y., Oct. 23 -- Next week, New York State motorists will be required to use hands-free technology when talking on their wireless phones while driving. Under the new law, passed by the New York State legislature and signed by Governor George Pataki in June, motorists who use their wireless phones while driving must use a hands-free device or face a $100 fine. The new law takes effect November 1 with a one-month warning period for drivers caught violating the law. As the effective date draws near, the company reminds all wireless phone users to take steps to comply with the law.
``We think educating drivers about how to use wireless phones responsibly while driving will enhance roadway safety for all of us,'' said Charles Hand, president of Verizon Wireless' New York Metro Region.
Here are some responsible driving tips: * Keep in mind that safe driving is always your first responsibility when behind the wheel. * For the most economical way to use a wireless phone while driving and comply with the new law, purchase a headset. Prices for Verizon Wireless headsets begin at $14.99 and fit many phone models, even those sold by other wireless providers. * Activate your voicemail service if you haven't already, so you won't miss a call if traffic conditions prevent you from answering the phone. You can retrieve your messages later. * Program important and frequently dialed numbers into your phone to take advantage of speed dialing and voice dialing features on your phone. * Never take notes or write down phone numbers while driving. Rather, pull off the road to a safe spot or leave yourself a message on your voice mail system.
For consumers in the market for new equipment, a variety of hands-free products are available. The Motorola 270c, for example, comes equipped with a built-in speakerphone and voice activated dialing that allows you to dial a call by simply speaking. The phone can be fastened easily to a car's vent or visor with specially designed clips and removed when you leave the vehicle. No installation or hard wiring is necessary. The 270c currently sells for $199.99 with a two-year service agreement; clips may be purchased separately, starting at $19.99.
Hands-free car kits, which provide a cradle for your phone and microphone capability, offer drivers another option for complying with the new law. Hands-free car kits are available for most current model wireless phones and begin at $129.99 with installation. All company-owned stores feature an accessory wall with a variety of headsets and equipment to make hands-free communication easy and convenient.
In addition, Verizon Wireless has introduced a new program, called vIQ (Vehicle Intelligence Quest), aimed at teaching new drivers about wireless safety behind the wheel. The educational kit contains a video and printed materials available to schools and driver's education organizations throughout the area.
For more information on hands-free options, customers can visit a Verizon Wireless Communications Store or check out http://www.verizonwireless.com/ics/plsql/accessory_mart.intro
About Verizon wireless
Verizon Wireless is the largest wireless communications provider in the U.S. with more than 28.7 million wireless voice and data customers. The coast- to-coast wireless provider was formed by the combination of the U.S. wireless businesses of Verizon Communications and Vodafone,including Bell Atlantic Mobile, AirTouch Cellular, GTE Wireless and PrimeCo Personal Communications. Verizon Wireless has a footprint covering more than 90 percent of the U.S. population, 49 of the top 50 and 97 of the top 100 U.S. markets. The company, headquartered in Bedminster, NJ, is 40,000 employees strong. Reporters and editors can find more information about the company on the Web at http://verizonwireless.com.
KEY DATES FOR NY STATE HANDS-FREE LAW November 1-30, Warning Period for drivers holding phones to 2001 ears while driving December 1, Effective Date: Drivers who hold phones to 2001 ears while driving can be ticketed December 1, Waiver Period: NY Courts will waive fines 2001 - for consumers charged with violating law if February 28, consumers demonstrate that between date of 2002 violation and court date they possess hands-free wireless telephone device March 1, 2002 Consumers using wireless phone while driving must use hands-free devices or risk fines of up to $100