Vermont Cell Phone Ban for Drivers Begins October 1, 2014

Anyone driving in Vermont must be aware that, as of October 1, 2014, using a cell phone while driving is banned. Using a cell phone or electronic device while driving is now illegal unless the device can be used hands-free.

Penalties:

There is no grace period. Fines are $100-$200 for a first violation and $250-$500 for any subsequent violation within two years. Police may cite a driver without any other traffic offense taking place.

Other States:

Vermont is the 13th state to ban drivers from using hand-held cell phones. The other states are California, Connecticut, Delaware, Hawaii, Illinois, Maryland, Nevada, New Jersey, New York, Oregon, Washington, and West Virginia.
New Hampshire is scheduled to implement a ban in July 2015. In addition, Washington, D.C., Puerto Rico, the Virgin Islands, and Guam have banned all hand-held use.

Massachusetts currently prohibits drivers under 18 from cell phone use while driving.

More Information on the Issue of Cell Phone Use While Driving:

Source:  Brattleboro Reformer News Vermont Drivers Warned of October 1 Cell Law 

Source: Murphy Insurance Blog Post Is Hands-free Cell Phone Use Safe?  

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