New Hands-Free Bill Awaits Governor’s Approval

In a bid to reduce the increasing incidents of distracted driving, the Michigan Senate and House have passed a bill mandating drivers to use hands-free devices while operating vehicles. The legislation is now nearing Governor Gretchen Whitmer’s desk for approval. Here’s what you need to know about the impending changes and how they could impact you as a Michigan driver.

New Law Seeks to Curb Distracted Driving in Michigan

In a significant move to increase road safety, the Michigan Senate and House have voted in favor of stricter distracted driving legislation. The proposed law, set to take effect on June 30, will impose fines on drivers using hand-held cell phones while driving. House Bill No. 4250, introduced in the 102nd Legislature’s regular session of 2023, represents a comprehensive effort to reduce road accidents and enhance public safety. The bill proposes several amendments to the existing Michigan vehicle and traffic law (1949 PA 300). It brings in a general prohibition on the use of mobile electronic devices while driving, including activities such as making or receiving calls, sending, or reading texts, recording, or transmitting video, accessing social media, and even reaching for the device in a way that disrupts the driving position.

Fines and Penalties Under the New Legislation

The new law also introduces punitive measures for violations. First-time offenders can expect a fine of $100, increasing to $250 for repeat violations. Drivers with three or more citations within three years will be required to complete a driver improvement course. Commercial vehicle operators, including school bus drivers, face steeper fines of $200 to $500. Violations resulting in accidents will see the maximum fines doubled.

Michigan Joins Other States in the Hands-Free Movement

The newly passed legislation will make Michigan the 26th state to enforce a ban on hand-held cell phones while driving, following in the footsteps of Ohio, which implemented a similar ban last month.

Concerns and Critiques of the Legislation

While the law has garnered substantial support, it has also raised concerns among some legislators. Critics argue that the law could potentially be misused by law enforcement. Other concerns focus on the financial burden of the fines, particularly for lower-income individuals who may lack access to hands-free technology.

The Urgency of Distracted Driving Laws

The push for stronger laws against distracted driving comes amid increasing accident rates. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, distracted driving caused 3,522 traffic deaths in the United States in 2021 alone. Michigan itself saw nearly 6 percent of all statewide crashes in 2021 involving at least one distracted driver.

Want to make sure your teenager isn’t driving distracted? Try connecting with your insurance companies telematics program. Most carriers offer discounts for monitoring your young driver.

The new hands-free cell phone driving law represents Michigan’s commitment to mitigating the risks and consequences of distracted driving. While some concerns remain, many hope the new law will lead to safer roads and communities in Michigan. As the legislation awaits final approval, drivers in Michigan should prepare for these changes and consider investing in hands-free devices for a safer driving experience.

Reach out to us if you have any questions or concerns of how this will affect you and your family.