Latest news with #handsfree
Yahoo
9 hours ago
- Yahoo
Avoiding legal troubles on the road this summer
ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (News-Press NOW) — For those who will hit the road for summer travel out of state, learning a few of the laws from other states might save time and trouble. While it's impossible to know all the key laws of every state, Buchanan County Sheriff Bill Puett said knowing a few key laws that are familiar sources of difficulty when traveling can be helpful. Laws about hands-free operation of an electronic or cellular device in the state of your destination is important," Puett said. "Every state is different when it comes to those laws." Puett added, for those who choose to carry a gun across state lines, knowing the concealed carry laws for the state of your destination is also important. "Some states require weapons to be out of reach while driving," Puett said. "They may also require ammunition to be separated from the gun itself." St. Joseph resident Toery Clinton said she often checks gun laws first when she is traveling to another state, to avoid any potential legal issues at her destination. "I always find out if I need to put the magazine in a different compartment than the gun, or if it needs to be in the trunk or locked away," Clinton said. Another St. Joseph resident, Cameron Trombly, said when he travels to other cities and wants to park near a site he is visiting, he has learned the hard way to check out the parking laws. "You need to check whether they have a kiosk for you to pay," Twombly said. "Also, check for meters in heavy tourist areas, because forgetting to pay can cost you." Sheriff Puett said, even if you get pulled over for any reason in another city or state, common courtesy is the best policy, even if you misunderstood the law or believe that you haven't broken a law. "The best thing to do is to comply," Puett said. "Take the summons, and argue or fight it later, because arguing with an officer roadside is never a good idea, due to safety concerns. The U.S. Concealed Carry Association (USCCA) provides legal defense funding and grants if an issue arises regarding concealed carry laws from state to state. Though Puett still recommends sorting those issues out after receiving the summons, as the best approach. Sheriff Puett said that Buchanan County officers exercise discretion when it comes to out-of-state drivers who are unfamiliar with Missouri laws. However, ignorance of the law is not a valid excuse in court. Therefore, if you receive a summons for an actual violation, it is likely you will have to pay the appropriate fines. A simple online check can usually answer questions about state laws regarding common issues like hands-free cellular usage, speeding and concealed carry laws.
Yahoo
09-06-2025
- Automotive
- Yahoo
Drivers and passengers react to new ‘Paul Miller Law' effective last week
BLAIR COUNTY, Pa. (WTAJ) — Drivers and some passengers are sharing their thoughts on the newest law in Pennsylvania, the Paul Miller Law. Signed by Governor Josh Shapiro last year, the new hands-free law bans hand-held cell phone use while driving and increases transparency and accountability at traffic stops. It went into effect on Thursday, June 5. The law is named after Paul Miller Jr., a 21 year-old killed after a tractor-trailer driver who was reaching for his cell phone lost control and crashed head-on into Miller's car. 'It takes five seconds to crash and it's a split hot second,' Driver Jeanette Swabley said. Paul Miller's Law also makes it illegal to use a cell phone even while stopped temporarily because of traffic or a red light. Swabley also works as an LPN in an emergency room. She encourages her children and herself not to use phones while driving. 'I see what happens when you are a distracted driver and have an accident. So I would rather not see you there. So please stay off your phones,' Swabley said. Aubree Bloom is working on getting her permit, so she can learn how to drive. Although she's not on the road yet, she thinks the law is a good idea, and drivers should ask the passenger to communicate for them. 'I feel like that people who are distracted by their phones have a better chance of getting involved in a crash, and like, you might they might get in an injury or maybe even death,' Bloom said. According to PennDOT data, in 2024, there were 9,950 crashes involving a distracted driver, resulting in more than 6,000 injuries and 49 fatalities. Savannah Metz rides in the passenger seat. She admits she's traveled in a car where someone has been distracted by their phone, but says it hasn't affected her. 'I think personally that it's okay because, like, what if you get a call and it's an emergency, and especially being like the parent of a child, I want to know if something's going on with my baby,' Metz said. The law allows some exceptions for drivers, such as calling 911 to report an emergency or if a driver pairs their cell phone to Bluetooth or CarPlay. Drivers can also use their devices if the vehicle is safely pulled off the road and not moving. Written warnings will be issued to drivers until June 5, 2026. After that date, violators will face a $50 fine, plus court costs and other fees. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Daily Mail
07-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Daily Mail
Revealed: The sleek crossbody bag Taylor Swift, Zendaya, and Martha Stewart all LOVE - here's how to snag yours for 10% off
If you've ever wished you could go hands-free and still look insanely chic instead of being bogged down by a heavy bag, you are not alone — and you are definitely in stylish company. We've found the perfect solution in Bandolier, the brand that has made a global name for itself with its sleek crossbody phone bags. They're so incredibly perfect that they've been spotted on everyone from Taylor Swift and Zendaya to Madonna and Martha Stewart. Bandolier Emma Everyone adores Emma, the brand's go-to original case. Made with 100 percent supple leather, it's the ultimate sleek companion. Featuring an adjustable strap, it's designed with a back pocket card holder that can hold up to three cards at a time. Choose from seven gorgeous colors including the always luxe black and gold version. Don't miss 10 percent off when you sign up for the Bandolier email list. $112 Shop These smart little accessories are part phone case, part hands-free bag, and 100 percent cool from top to bottom. They not only free up your hands, but also instantly upgrade your fit. Forget about digging through your bag or forgetting where you tossed your phone. This is all you need. And it's why everyone and their mother — literally — is on board with Bandolier. Take Miss Taylor, who is definitely not about to sling any old phone case over her shoulder. Bandolier Lily Duet We love a luxe accent! This chic companion includes both a wristlet strap and a crossbody strap, giving you the options you want to carry Lily however you please. The design ticks every box, from its raised camera ring to its back pocket card holder. It's available in so many gorgeous colors, like this sweet pink croc accented with gold. $148 Shop Bandolier Dillon Bag If you need a little extra room, you definitely need Dillon! This pretty crossbody is available in five colors (including this TDF croc gold model) and has a just-roomy-enough interior that holds your everyday essentials in style. The outer phone pocket is designed to comfortably hold a companion phone case for a sleek look on the go. $218 Shop She's been snapped with the brand's Emma bag, a super glam leather version that balances fashion and function perfectly. Even Travis Kelce's mom has been seen rocking more than one style herself. Madonna has also given Bandolier her superstar stamp of approval, most notably carrying the Hailey Crossbody Phone Case. The Material Girl even shared it on social. Martha's a fan of this style, too! And, oh yeah, Oprah featured Bandolier in her iconic Favorite Things list, which basically made it an instant national treasure. Across the board, Bandolier's styles strike that coveted balance between being wearable, timeless, and somehow trend-forward all at once. They come in a variety of solids and even some embossed finishes for the maximalists out there. You can snap up companion accessories to maximize their efficiency in your life, too. From snap-on pouches to extra snaps so you can mix and match to create your own hands-free masterpiece, the options to make your statement with Bandolier are virtually endless. Bottom line: These are the It accessory of the moment! And when you sign up for the brand's email list, you can even snag a sweet 10 percent discount off your first order. Shopping for the perfect one may be the toughest part, but the first step is to select your phone size (available from iPhone XR to iPhone 16 Pro Max) so you can find the perfect fit for your device. Here are some highlights from Bandolier you'll love.
Yahoo
24-05-2025
- Automotive
- Yahoo
SC is now a hands-free state. What that means, what to know
South Carolina's new hands-free law is here and that means no more texting, scrolling or holding your phone while behind the wheel. Gov. Henry McMaster signed into law the South Carolina Hands-Free and Distracted Driving Act on May 12, marking a significant step toward enhancing road safety across the state. While this act does not take effect until Sept. 1, this legislation aims to reduce accidents caused by mobile device distractions, aligning South Carolina driving laws with over 30 other states. So before you buckle up and hit the gas, make sure your phone's out of sight. According to the latest available traffic collision data from the South Carolina Department of Public Safety, there was a total of 143,426 traffic collisions reported across the state in 2022. The total number of collisions caused by distracted driving in South Carolina adds up to a total of 9,240 accidents. What about Beaufort County? In Beaufort County, 3,726 total traffic collisions were reported in 2022, with 877 accidents caused by distracted drivers, accounting for 23.5% of accidents. Distracted driving makes up one of the top three causes of accidents in Beaufort County, according to the SCDPS. While the Palmetto State has banned texting and driving since 2014, this new law prohibits drivers from using mobile electronic devices while operating a motor vehicle, with specific exceptions. A 'mobile electronic device' is defined as any portable electronic device capable of providing data or voice communication, including smartphones, tablets, GPS receivers, electronic games or other stand-alone devices. Under the law, drivers are not permitted to: Hold or support a mobile device with any part of their body. This does not prohibit the use of an earpiece or device worn on the wrist used for 'voice-based communication.' Use a mobile device to write, send or read text-based communications. Watch motion, including a video, movie, game or video call. Violating the provisions of the Hands-Free Act can result in the following penalties: First Offense: A fine of $100. Second or Subsequent Offenses: A fine of $200 and the addition of two points to the driver's license. The law takes effect on Sept. 1 to allow residents time to adjust to the new requirements and ensure compliance. During the first 180 days after the law takes effect, officers will only issue warnings for violations. Violations of this act are classified as summary offenses and do not lead to arrest unless the individual fails to appear in court or pay the imposed fine. While South Carolina is cracking down on distracted drivers, the Hands-Free Act includes several exceptions for the use of mobile devices. The exceptions include: Using a device in a voice-activated or hands-free mode. Using a mobile device to listen to audio-based content, such as navigation services, music or podcasts, provided the device is not held or supported by the driver. Using a mobile device to report a traffic accident, hazardous road conditions or a medical emergency. The law does not apply to law enforcement officers, firefighters or emergency medical services personnel while performing official duties. These exceptions are in place to ensure that the law does not impede necessary communication during emergencies or official duties. The SCDPS offers tips and guidelines to encourage and support drivers to avoid distractions of all kinds. These include: Put away your phone when behind the wheel. Avoid arguments and stressful or emotional conversations with passengers. Avoid eating while driving. Be sure children are properly and safely buckled up. Properly secure pets in a pet carrier or portable kennel. To learn more about the South Carolina Hands-Free and Distracted Driving Act, click here.
