Partners & Massachusetts Hands-Free Law

Our Partners

Since 1980, Safety Insurance has partnered with Independent Agents to provide customers with the best possible insurance products and services at a competitive price. Today, Safety is a leading provider of auto, home, and business insurance in Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and Maine.

Safety Insurance consistently maintains an “A” (Excellent) rating by A.M. Best Company, one of the nation’s leading independent rating services.

Safety Insurance also provided support through our work with The Parent’s Supervised Driving Program.

To learn about Safety Insurance, visit SafetyInsurance.com.

Coalition Memberships

Massachusetts Vision Zero Coalition — eliminating all traffic fatalities and severe injuries
Road to Zero Coalition — working toward zero roadway deaths
Partnership for Distraction-Free Driving — a united front to end distracted driving
EndDD.org — End Distracted Driving partnership for classroom programs

Massachusetts Hands-Free Law

The Massachusetts Hands-Free Driving Law took effect on February 23, 2020. Safe Roads Alliance played a leading role in the decade-long push to pass this legislation.

What You Need to Know

It is illegal to hold your phone while driving
It is illegal to compose or read texts, emails, or social media
It is illegal to watch videos or use the camera function on your phone
Drivers under 18 are banned from ALL phone use, including all electronic devices

Fines and Penalties

First offense: $100
Second offense: $250 + required distracted driving education course
Third offense: $500 (surchargeable to your insurance)

What You Need to Do

If you need to use your phone, it must be affixed to the dashboard, center console, or windshield. You cannot hold it in your hand.
Only one touch or one swipe is allowed to activate GPS or to make/receive a call.
You can no longer manually dial a phone number or enter a GPS location while driving.

What We Recommend

Program your GPS before you drive
Call or text anyone before you depart to let them know you’ll be driving
If you have an iPhone, enable Do Not Disturb While Driving in settings. For Android, download the DriveMode app.
Remember: Hands-free is not risk-free. The safest way to drive is to put the phone away and #justdrive

For more info, email emily@saferoadsalliance.org or visit mass.gov/handsfree

Partners & the Hands-Free Law