Starting June 30, Michigan will become the 26th state to establish a hands-free driving law. While texting and driving was already illegal, it will now be worth hefty fines and/or community service for drivers of commercial vehicles and individuals who hold their phones to do any task, including, but not limited to the following:
- sending or receiving a telephone call
- sending, receiving, or reading a text message
- viewing, recording, or transmitting a video
- Accessing, reading, or posting to a social networking site
While there are a few exceptions to the law, such as calling 9-1-1 in an emergency situation, the goal is to stop distracted driving — the leading factor in most crashes and near-crashes, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and Virginia Tech Transportation Institute.
Take the initiative to read more about the new Michigan Distracted Driving Law, taking effect June 30, 2023.