A 3-minute lesson from the New Hampshire course. Read the rules and examples, follow the handbook page references, and check your understanding before you move on.
A distraction is anything that takes your attention off driving: eyes off the road, hands off the wheel, or mind off the task. Mental distractions are just as dangerous as physical ones. NH's hands-free law spells out what you can and can't do with a device.
Know the rule
Under RSA 265:79-c, no driver may use a hand-held mobile electronic device while moving, or while halted in traffic for a traffic control device or other momentary delay.
Drivers under 18 may not use any mobile device, hands-free or not, while driving or stopped in traffic, except to report an emergency to E-911 or a public safety agency.
A mobile device with a built-in feature or attachment that lets you converse without using either hand. You may still use a hand just to activate, deactivate or start a function.
You're 30 and stopped at a red light. You pick up your phone to text "running late." That's illegal: the ban covers being halted in traffic for a signal, not just moving. Use a hands-free device or wait until you're parked.
Check your understanding
Read the question, decide on an answer, then open it to check the explanation. These are Roadwise study questions based on the source handbook.
Under RSA 265:79-c, what is generally prohibited for drivers of any age while a vehicle is moving?
Using a hands-free phone
Talking to a passenger
Adjusting the radio volume
Using a hand-held mobile electronic device
Answer: Using a hand-held mobile electronic device
NH law bans using a hand-held mobile electronic device while driving or temporarily halted in traffic.