Hands-free systems from auto manufacturers

California’s two new wireless telephone laws take effect on July 1. One law (Vehicle Code Section 23124) prohibits the use of wireless telephones and hands-free devices for drivers under the age of 18 -- sorry, kids. The other law (VC Section 23123) prohibits all drivers from using a handheld wireless telephone while operating a motor vehicle, but permits those older than 18 to use a hands-free device. If you’re caught holding your cellphone up to your ear while driving, you could be subject to penalties of $76 for a first offense and of $190 for a second offense. You won’t get any points on your license for an offense, just the ticket; the violation will, however, appear on your driving record.

And, if you’re found to have been holding your cellphone to your ear during an accident that resulted in a fatality, you could be subject to a civil lawsuit, or even a misdemeanor manslaughter charge, as The Times reported on June 19.

So, what is a California motorist to do? The cheapest way to comply with the law (and still talk on a phone while driving) is to connect a wired headset or speakerphone to your cellphone. If your cellphone is Bluetooth capable, a Bluetooth headset is also a legal option (one ear only, please). An aftermarket Bluetooth unit from manufacturers such as Parrot, Motorola and Sony Ericsson can also be used.

For the ultimate in convenience, nothing beats a factory-installed hands-free Bluetooth setup. We’ve compiled a partial list of Bluetooth and hands-free features from the major automotive manufacturers in their current models and in a few from 2009. This is by no means an exhaustive list; features are subject to change without notice. With a volatile young technology such as Bluetooth, expect change to come swiftly and frequently.

Incidentally, Bluetooth is named after Harald “Bluetooth” Blatand, who was King of Denmark in the 10th century. He united Denmark and Norway. When Nokia, the Swedish cellphone company, created a technology to unite phones and computers, they chose Bluetooth in the Scandinavian king’s honor.