Walter Clark Legal Group, a Palm Desert-based law firm has said it will distribute complimentary hand-free headsets in response to California’s new law that prohibits handheld use of cell phones while driving.

 

The new law will take effect on July 1, 2008 and is intended to protect everyone on the road by reducing driver distraction.

 

Around 300 lives are estimated to be saved in California once the law is in effect. This study has been carried out by the Public Policy Institute of California. Connecticut, Washington, New York, New Jersey, Chicago and Washington D.C also have laws in place to ban the use of handheld mobile devices while driving.

 

According to attorney Walter Clark, “With the new law taking effect, many people are forced to purchase hands-free devices if they want to continue using their cell phones while driving. We want to help local residents comply with the law, and alleviate the costs of purchasing the new headsets while promoting driver safety.”

 

The Walter Clark Legal Group is led by board certified attorney Walter Clark. The firm concentrates on helping injured people and those hurt by defective drugs or other products.

 

The California Hands-Free Law states that those 18 and older are allowed to use hands-free headsets while those under18 aren’t allowed to use mobile devices with or without hands-free accessories.

 

Also, police officers will begin ticketing drivers who use cell phones without hands-free devices on July 1. The first offense results in a $20 fine and the second offense is a $50 fine. Multiple offenses could result in more than triple the base amount.

 

Drivers are allowed to use their cell phones without hands-free devices during emergencies to call police, fire, or medical authorities.

 

To receive a complimentary hands-free headset, visit: www.WalterClark.com. The headsets will be available at Walter Clark’s Palm Desert and Victorville office locations from July 3rd onwards. Participants must be either 18 years or older and should also have a valid driver’s license to receive headsets from the firm.