Can you go on your phone at a red light in NH? What the law says

New Hampshire has a “hands-free” driving law, which prohibits drivers from using electronic devices while driving. But can you check a text at a red light?

That’s illegal too, according to the law.

While you may be tempted to send a quick message or check a notification at a red light, doing so could get you a steep fine in New Hampshire. That’s because using a phone even when temporarily halted is included under the state’s hands-free law.

Here’s what to know to avoid a ticket and stay safe.

What is New Hampshire‘s law about using a cell phone while driving?

Since 2015, New Hampshire has prohibited drivers of motor vehicles from using any hand held electronic device, including cellphones, GPS, tablets, iPods and iPads. The law aims to curb fatal crashes caused by distracted driving.

This means you are not allowed to interact with phones to do things like send or read texts or emails, make phone calls or program a GPS. However, you can use hands-free devices like Bluetooth, devices built into the vehicle or two-way radios.

Under the law, drivers under 18 are not allowed to use any electronic devices, even in hands-free mode.

There are some exceptions for emergency calls or to answer a call through a speaker or Bluetooth connection.

Can you be on your phone at a red light in New Hampshire?

No, you can’t use your phone with your hands at a red light or stop sign in New Hampshire.

That’s because the law bans hand held use of devices even when a car is “temporarily halted in traffic for a stop sign or traffic signal or other momentary delays,” according to a fact sheet.

Handheld use is only allowed when the vehicle has pulled off to the side or off the road legally and is stationary.

Can you talk on a cell phone while driving in New Hampshire?

Yes, but only if it’s “hands-free.” This means you can use things like voice activated calling, speaker phone or Bluetooth.

You can also call 911 or other public safety agencies with a hand held device.

Drivers under the age of 18 can’t use a phone for any reason, including to make hands-free phone calls.

How much is a ticket for being on your phone while driving in New Hampshire?

You can be fined up to $500 for violating New Hampshire‘s hands-free law. The law is also a primary offense, meaning that a driver can be pulled over and ticketed for violating this law alone.

A first offense is $100 and a second is $250.

Any subsequent offense within two years is subject to a $500 fine. Penalty assessments may be added to every offense.

This article originally appeared on Portsmouth Herald. Reporting by Margie Cullen