Starting on January 1, 2025, a new law will ban Colorado drivers from holding their phones while driving.
The Hands-Free Law is aimed at reducing distracted driving and improving road safety.
This law comes after an alarming rise in crashes and fatalities linked to distracted driving.
New Law Targets Distracted Driving
The Hands-Free Law will make it illegal for drivers in Colorado to hold their phones while operating a vehicle.
Instead, drivers must use hands-free accessories like Bluetooth or a phone mount.
This law is part of a broader effort to curb the rising number of crashes caused by distracted driving.
According to the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT), 77% of drivers admitted to using their phones while behind the wheel.
With over 700 deaths and 15,000 crashes over the past five years linked to distracted driving, the state is hopeful this new law will reduce these dangerous incidents.
Penalties and Exceptions for Violators
Under the new law, anyone caught holding their phone while driving will face a $75 fine and two points on their license for a first offense.
However, drivers can avoid penalties if they show proof of purchasing a hands-free device, such as a phone mount.
Repeat offenders will face higher fines and more points on their driving record.
There are exceptions for emergency situations and first responders.
If someone needs to report an emergency or is working as a first responder, they will still be allowed to use their phone while driving.
These exceptions ensure that essential services are not disrupted in critical situations.
Impact on Pedestrian and Bicycle Safety
Distracted driving has contributed to a significant increase in pedestrian and cyclist fatalities in Colorado.
In 2023, 133 pedestrians and 20 cyclists were killed, marking a record high.
According to experts, distracted drivers are often unaware of pedestrians and cyclists, making them more vulnerable to accidents.
Bicycle Colorado, a nonprofit focused on improving road safety, was a major advocate for the new law.
They emphasized the growing danger to pedestrians and cyclists, especially after 2023's deadly year.
With this law, the hope is to reduce these fatalities and make roads safer for everyone.
