State Laws Prohibiting Drivers' Use Of Handsets Have Motorists Switching To Safer Hands-Free Option

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Have Motorists Switching To Safer Hands-Free Option | (NAPSA)—Asstate legislatures continue to enact new regulations prohibiting drivers from using handheld phones, hands-free devices are becoming a necessity for many motorists. These new regulations are a direct response to research showing cell phone use can be blamed for a significant amountof accidents each year. Harvard researchers estimate that drivers using cell phones cause 570,000 accidents annually, with more than 2,500 resulting in a fatality— a figure that drops considerably with the use of hands-free devices. Six states—Oregon, California, Connecticut, New Jersey, New York and Washington—now prohibit cell phone use while driving without a hands-free device. With the exception of Washington state, these laws are primary enforcement, meaning an officer may ticket a driver for using a handheld cell phone while driving without any othertraffic offense. Safe Hands-Free Options Assorted new products are now available for safety-conscious and law-abiding drivers. One nationwide cellular phone and service provider, Consumer Cellular, offers a variety of wireless headsets and accessories ranging in price from $15 to $80. Wireless accessory products include the LG Electronics HBM760 headset and the Motorola Ear- bud Headset, both available from ConsumerCellular. “Consumer Cellular is dedicated to providing solutions for our customers as their needs evolve,” says John Marick, president and CEO. “With new laws and regulations in place and the safety of our customers being a top priority, it’s important we offer accessories that meet our customers’ needs, which include hands-free options. We want to The hands-free headset is a safer option for motorists than handsets, which are prohibited in many states. help make the driving experience as safe and easy as possible.” Consumer Cellular has long supported providing affordable, simple wireless solutions to motorists and is now focusing even more on safety through its partnership with AAA. AAA members receive discounts on accessories, including a free earbud with a phone purchase andfree calls to AAA emergencyroadside service. The companyis also the exclusive wireless provider for AARP, offering members a discount on monthly fees and select accessories. Additionally, AARP members receive a 45-day guarantee period. Consumer Cellular does not have long-term contracts or earlytermination fees. Affordable rates for nationwide service start at only $10 a month andare ideal for individuals who want the safety and convenienceof cellular service without paying high rates for unused features. Additionally, a 30-day, risk-free satisfaction guarantee is available to all new customers. For more information on hands-free driving regulations, visit www.drivinglaws.org. Learn More You can learn more online at www.consumercellular.com.