Beginning January 1, 2010, Oregon’s new cell phone law takes effect.
In Eugene, the base fine for violating the new cell phone law is $115.
The law prohibits the use of “mobile communications devices” for talking or texting while driving unless the driver meets one of the specific exceptions:
- using a “hands-free accessory” (18 years of age or over)
- operating a vehicle in the scope of one’s job
- responding to an emergency situation
Drivers under the age of 18 years are not permitted to use a mobile communication device at all while driving.
“This means law enforcement personnel can stop a driver
solely for using a mobile communications device without using a hands-free accessory,” according to the Oregon Department of Transportation.
In addition to the new cell phone law, there are changes to Oregon’s “Move Over” law that also take effect on January 1, 2010.
The “Failure to Maintain Safe Distance from an Emergency Vehicle” rule has been modified to include “roadside assistance vehicles” and “tow trucks.” Additionally, the new changes clarify that “slow down” means a driver must reduce their speed to at least 5 m.p.h. below the posted speed limit if they are unable to safely change lanes while approaching an emergency vehicle that is stopped with its emergency lights activated.
Oregon’s “Move Over” law was passed in 2003 in an effort to improve the safety for police officers and other emergency personnel who must work along our state and local roadways. The fine for violating the “Move Over” law is between $287 and $400.
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