On July 2nd, Massachusetts joined 28 other states that prohibit the act of text messaging while driving when Governor Deval Patrick signed the “Safe Driving Bill” into law. An enacted amendment introduced by Senator Donnelly will make texting while driving a primary offense, meaning that any violator of the prohibition can be pulled over and fined specifically for the act of texting while driving.

Text messaging while operating a motor vehicle requires the driver to take their eyes off the road and onto their cell phone for an extended period of time, significantly increasing the risk of an accident and posing a significant danger not only to texters themselves but to pedestrians, cyclists, and other motorists who share Massachusetts roads. Violators will be punished by a $100 fine for the 1st offense, a $200 fine for the 2nd offense, and a $500 dollar fine for all subsequent offenses.

The bill also includes several other provisions to increase public safety. “Junior operators,” drivers under the age of 18, as well public transportation operators, are prohibited from using cell phones except in the case of an emergency. Violators will be punished by license/learner’s permit suspension and fine. Motorists age 75 or older are required to renew their driver’s license in person at an RMV and pass a vision test every 5 years. Drivers who have 3 or more accidents within a 24-month period will be subject to safe driving retraining courses or license suspension until the training is completed.

The law takes effect in October.