Vaping and Driving in Massachusetts: Is It Illegal? People wonder if vaping is allowed in the car while driving with the increasing popularity of vaping. This is especially the case in states like Massachusetts that have strict rules and regulations regarding e-cigarettes and smoking in general.
Massachusetts has very strict laws regarding tobacco products as well as car safety, so drivers need to know the rules regarding vaping while driving.
This article discusses in detail the regulations, legal consequences, and the ways to vape safely while driving in Bay State.
Vaping and Driving: Legal Standing in Massachusetts
Presently, there is no specific law of the state of Massachusetts strictly prohibiting the act of vaping while driving. While drinking alcohol or smoking marijuana in a car can be absolutely not tolerated, vaping does not fall into that category of zero-tolerance laws.
However, that does not give drivers unlimited freedom. Vaping may result in other legal issues if it becomes a distraction and affects safe driving, for example.
Distracted Driving Laws Still Apply
The Hands-Free Law – saying no holding or using any sort of electronic device while driving-is the primary law Massachusetts currently enforces for distracted driving.
Vaping devices are not specifically listed, but holding a vape, blowing vapor that obstructs your view, or any other thing that draws your attention away from the road can be classified as distracted driving if you make unsafe maneuvers while driving.
In this case, a driver may receive a ticket or other punishments due to driving while distracted. Fine for a first-time offender ranges between $100 and $500, and further additional punishments such as being sent to driver’s ed may also be imposed.
Vaping Around Minors
Massachusetts has severe laws that ensure that children do not get exposed to secondhand smoke. Among them, smoking in a car where a child under 18 years old is present is prohibited.
This law applies to both smoking of traditional tobacco products and vaping. Smokers can be subjected to punishment as the state deems exposure to their products detrimental to the health of children.
To keep away from becoming a lawbreaker and to prevent placing the health of passengers at risk, drivers should avoid vaping when there are minors in the car.
Health and Safety Risks
Driving while vaping is dangerous in its own right, even when it’s legal. Clouds of vapor can temporarily obstruct vision, especially from larger devices, making accidents more likely.
Some studies show that even small distractions, like reaching for a vape, can make it take longer to react and take your mind off of the dangers on the road.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) says that vaping is a type of manual distraction that can make accidents much more likely, even if it is only for a short time.
Potential Consequences of Vaping and Driving
There is no such crime like vaping in the vehicle, but if it leads to a road accident, you may be fined, license taken away, or possibly increase in insurance rates.
Moreover, a vaping driver, who is distracted, could lead to an accident, and they may face reckless driving charges, especially with a resulting injury to another person.
Best Practices for Drivers Who Use E-Cigarettes
To avoid trouble with the police and to avoid diversion, drivers may be advised to vape only when they are not driving.
It would also help to stay away from children, have a clear view, and use devices that do not require hand movement or very little hand movement.
Conclusion
Even though Massachusetts law does not strictly forbid vaping while driving, it can still get you in trouble with the law and put you at risk if it causes you to be distracted.
Drivers can reduce risks and stay out of trouble by following the state’s hands-free laws and not vaping around kids.
