Handsfree required for those driving with hearing aids?
Posted in Hearing on September 14, 2010
I get this question routinely, and as I answered it today I thought I'd stop and reach a wider group: "Do I have to use a hands free device while driving if I have hearing loss?" (Usually asked because my patients can't hear using these devices.) The answer is YES - you do need to use one if you have hearing loss. However: YOU ARE NOT REQUIRED TO IF YOU USE A HEARING AID. For those who are wearing their hearing aid at the time of the call are except from this law.
However,for many of you out there who do have hearing aids and not able to use a hands free device -but want to - there are many styles made to be compatible with most hearing aids...let me know your questions and we will go from there.
For anyone to print out and keep in their car:
RCW 46.61.667
Using a wireless communications device while driving.
(1) Except as provided in subsections (2) and (3) of this section, a person operating a moving motor vehicle while holding a wireless communications device to his or her ear is guilty of a traffic infraction.
(2) Subsection (1) of this section does not apply to a person operating:
(a) An authorized emergency vehicle, or a tow truck responding to a disabled vehicle;
(b) A moving motor vehicle using a wireless communications device in hands-free mode;
(c) A moving motor vehicle using a hand-held wireless communications device to:
(i) Report illegal activity;
(ii) Summon medical or other emergency help;
(iii) Prevent injury to a person or property; or
(iv) Relay information that is time sensitive between a transit or for-hire operator and that operator's dispatcher, in which the device is permanently affixed to the vehicle;
(d) A moving motor vehicle while using a hearing aid.
http://apps.leg.wa.gov/rcw/default.aspx?cite=46.61.667
Sincerely,
Michelle Batson, AuD
Doctor of Audiology