Sales of hands-free cell phone devices pick up

Haven't picked up a headset or other hands-free cell phone device yet? Join the crowd.

Several retailers have seen a surge in customers looking for accessories that would put them in compliance with the new law, which goes into effect Tuesday.

The law makes it illegal to hold a cell phone to your ear while driving. Violators can face a $124 fine, but
it is considered a secondary infraction, which means they can only be cited if an officer pulls them over for something else.

"I think there's heightened awareness and a sense of urgency," said Kimberly Sebastian, director of sales for U.S. Cellular in Washington amd Oregon.

Obeying the law may not require a shopping trip. Many phones already come with speakerphones with voice-activated dialing or a wired headset, Sebastian said.

And there's no need to shell out a lot of cash. Verizon Wireless, for instance, is selling headsets for $15. For around $150, shoppers can also purchase wireless speakers. They are attached to the visors of the car and are connected to the phone via wireless Bluetooth technology.

"It's just a matter of taste, depending on how much you want to spend, and what you're comfortable with," said Georgia Taylor, a Verizon Wireless spokeswoman in Bellevue. "Not everyone wants the same thing."