Days before a law that will fine drivers who talk on their handheld cell phones takes effect, residents are hitting stores for the all-important hands-free devices.
Business was up Thursday at some New Jersey electronics stores, where customers weighed their hands-free phone options. One of those options includes Bluetooth earpieces, which allow drivers to talk wirelessly. The Jawbone Bluetooth headset is a popular item, according to clerks.
"It operates off the sensation of your jaw," said Best Buy's Jessica Ragsdale. "If you're riding with the sunroof down, with wind blowing and the radio blasting, the person on the other end can't hear a thing."
Another costlier option includes having a speakerphone device hardwired into vehicles. For less money, drivers can simply clip a speakerphone onto their visor or elsewhere. They can also purchase earpieces with wires.
Whatever the cost, police believe it will likely be cheaper than the steep fine violators will face starting March 1. "You will be issued a summons, and I believe the fine is $100," said State Police Commander Matthew Walker.
Under the new law, people who send text messages while driving will also face the same fine.
For an interview about the different hands-free cell phone options, go to channel 612 on your iO digital cable box and select iO Extra.