As Distracted Driving Awareness Month approaches in April, we are reminded to adhere to distracted driving laws, aimed at making our roads safer for everyone year-round. With an increase in smartphone use and other distractions, it's essential to be aware of the laws and penalties surrounding distracted driving. In this post, we’ll break down distracted driving laws and the consequences.

What is Distracted Driving?

Distracted driving is any activity that diverts attention from driving including texting, talking on the phone, eating, changing the radio, or even chatting with passengers. According to the Michigan Office of Highway Safety Planning, distracted driving is a factor in thousands of crashes each year. 

The Laws

While distracted driving laws can vary by state, there are some common elements that many states share:

1. Texting While Driving

Most states have strict laws against texting while driving. The most dangerous form of distracted driving is texting, since it requires visual, manual, and cognitive attention.

Michigan has a primary enforcement law for texting, which means law enforcement can stop and ticket a driver solely for texting, even if no other traffic violation has occurred.

2. Use of Hands-Free Devices

While some states allow the use of hands-free devices, others have restrictions. It's important to familiarize yourself with local laws regarding Bluetooth or other hands-free technologies to avoid fines.

3. Other Distractions

Driving while distracted by activities such as eating, grooming, or interacting with passengers can also be penalized, especially if these actions lead to dangerous driving behavior.

Penalties for Distracted Driving

The penalties for distracted driving can vary significantly depending on the specific violation. Common consequences include:

1. Fines

Many states impose fines for distracted driving offenses. These can range from $50 to several hundred dollars, depending on the severity of the violation.

2. Points on Your License

Distracted driving can lead to points being added to your driving record. Accumulating too many points can result in higher insurance rates and even license suspension.

3. Increased Insurance Premiums

Insurance companies often raise premiums for drivers with distracted driving citations. Over time, this can lead to a significant financial burden.

4. Potential Criminal Charges

In severe cases, especially if distracted driving leads to an accident with injuries or fatalities, the driver may face criminal charges. This can result in hefty fines, community service, or even jail time.

Stay Focused

Here are some tips to help minimize distractions and stay vigilant behind the wheel:

• Put your phone away: Consider using "Do Not Disturb" mode while driving.
• Plan ahead: Set your GPS and music before you start driving.
• Avoid multitasking: Eat before you drive, and save interactions with passengers for when you're parked.

Conclusion

Understanding distracted driving laws and their penalties is vital for all drivers. By staying informed and committed to safe driving practices, you contribute to safer roads for everyone