HANDS OFF THE PHONE: RULES FOR MICHIGAN DRIVERS
In 2023, Michigan joined the ranks of states cracking down on distracted driving. The new hands-free law, which took effect on June 30, 2023, aims to make roads safer by reducing phone-related distractions behind the wheel. Here’s everything you need to know about Michigan’s distracted driving laws:
WHAT’S BANNED UNDER THE NEW LAW?
Michigan’s distracted driving law prohibits drivers from:
Holding or using a cell phone or mobile electronic device while driving
Sending or receiving text messages
Making phone calls (unless hands-free)
Watching videos
Posting to social media
Entering GPS coordinates while in motion
THE HANDS-FREE EXCEPTION
Drivers can still use their phones if:
The device is in hands-free or voice-operated mode
The phone is mounted in a secure holder
They’re using built-in vehicle controls or displays
PENALTIES FOR DISTRACTED DRIVING
Breaking the law comes with consequences:
First offense: $100 fine or 16 hours community service
Second offense: $250 fine or 24 hours community service
Third offense within 3 years: Mandatory driver improvement course
DOUBLED FINES FOR CRASHES
If a distracted driver causes an accident, civil fines are doubled.
COMMERCIAL DRIVERS FACE STEEPER FINES FOR DISTRACTED DRIVING VIOLATIONS
For commercial vehicle and school bus drivers:
First offense: $200 fine or 32 hours community service
Subsequent offenses: $500 fine or 48 hours community service
EMERGENCY EXCEPTIONS
The law allows phone use for:
Reporting emergencies
Contacting 911
First responders performing official duties
DISTRACTED DRIVING BY THE NUMBERS: MICHIGAN SEES POSITIVE TRENDS
Since implementing the hands-free law, Michigan has made progress:
12.8% reduction in distracted driving
5,500 crashes prevented
3,000 injuries avoided
25 fatalities prevented
$218 million in economic damages saved
NATIONAL STATISTICS PAINT A SOBERING PICTURE
3,308 people killed in distracted driving crashes (2022)
289,310 people injured in distracted driving crashes (2022)
Texting drivers are 23 times more likely to crash
TEENS AT HIGHER RISK OF DISTRACTED DRIVING
9% of distracted drivers in fatal crashes were aged 15-20
21% of all distracted drivers in Michigan crashes were aged 15-20
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Q: Can I use my phone at a red light or stop sign?
A: No, the law applies even when your vehicle is stopped in traffic.
Q: Is it legal to use my phone for GPS?
A: Yes, if it’s mounted or you’re using voice commands. Entering addresses while driving is prohibited.
Q: What about smartwatches or other wearable devices?
A: The law doesn’t specifically mention wearables, but using them in a distracting manner could still result in a ticket.
Q: Can passengers use their phones?
A: Yes, the law only applies to drivers.
Q: Are there any exceptions for work-related calls?
A: No, unless you’re an emergency responder. Consider pulling over safely to take important calls.
BEYOND THE PHONE: OTHER FORMS OF DISTRACTED DRIVING
While the new law focuses on electronic devices, other distractions remain dangerous:
Eating or drinking
Grooming
Reading
Adjusting the radio or climate controls
Interacting with passengers
TIPS FOR DISTRACTION-FREE DRIVING
Set up GPS and music before you start driving
Use hands-free technology for calls if necessary
Pull over to handle texts or emails
Secure pets in the back seat
Remind passengers to help you stay focused
THE SCIENCE OF DISTRACTION: WHY MULTITASKING BEHIND THE WHEEL IS DANGEROUS
Distracted driving involves three main types of impairment:
1. Visual: Taking your eyes off the road
2. Manual: Taking your hands off the wheel
3. Cognitive: Taking your mind off driving
Texting is particularly hazardous because it combines all three types of distraction.
REACTION TIME SUFFERS
Studies show that distracted drivers:
Have slower reaction times
Miss important visual cues
Have reduced field of vision (tunnel vision)
Make more errors in judgment
LEGAL CONSEQUENCES BEYOND FINES: CIVIL LIABILITY IN DISTRACTED DRIVING ACCIDENTS
If you cause an accident while distracted:
You may be held liable for damages
Your insurance rates could increase
You could face a personal injury lawsuit
DISTRACTED DRIVING IN MICHIGAN: CRIMINAL CHARGES POSSIBLE
In severe cases involving injury or death, distracted drivers may face:
Reckless driving charges
Vehicular manslaughter charges
Significant jail time and fines
MICHIGAN’S EFFORTS TO COMBAT DISTRACTED DRIVING: EDUCATION AND AWARENESS
Public safety campaigns
School-based programs
Employer-led initiatives
INCREASED ENFORCEMENT
Primary offense status allows police to stop distracted drivers
Dedicated patrols and checkpoints
TECHNOLOGY SOLUTIONS
Apps that block phone use while driving
In-vehicle systems that limit distractions
THE FUTURE OF DISTRACTED DRIVING PREVENTION: POTENTIAL DEVELOPMENTS
Advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS)
Stricter laws and penalties
Improved data collection on distracted driving incidents
WHAT YOU CAN DO TO PREVENT DISTRACTED DRIVING: BE PART OF THE SOLUTION
Model good behavior for young drivers
Speak up if you’re a passenger with a distracted driver
Support local and state efforts to reduce distracted driving
IF YOU’VE BEEN INJURED BY A DISTRACTED DRIVER: KNOW YOUR RIGHTS
You may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering
An experienced car accident attorney can help navigate the legal process
DOCUMENT THE INCIDENT
Gather witness information
Take photos of the scene and vehicles
Obtain a copy of the police report
SEEK MEDICAL ATTENTION
Even if injuries seem minor, some symptoms may appear later
Medical records are crucial for any potential legal claim
Key provisions:
Defines prohibited electronic device use
Outlines penalties and exceptions
Establishes hands-free requirements
MCL 257.320a – POINT SYSTEM
Assigns points for distracted driving violations
Outlines consequences for repeat offenders
MCL 257.625 – OPERATING WHILE INTOXICATED
Can apply to severely distracted drivers in some cases
THE BOTTOM LINE: STAY FOCUSED, STAY SAFE
Michigan’s new distracted driving law is a crucial step toward safer roads. By putting down our phones and staying focused on driving, we can all play a part in reducing accidents, injuries, and fatalities. Remember, no text, call, or social media post is worth risking your life or the lives of others. When you’re behind the wheel, make driving your top priority.
ABOUT OUR FIRM
At 877 Power Law, we’re committed to helping victims of distracted driving accidents get the justice and compensation they deserve. Our experienced team of attorneys understands the complexities of Michigan’s traffic laws and will fight tirelessly on your behalf. If you or a loved one has been injured by a distracted driver, contact us today for a free consultation.
Call at 877 Power-Law, that’s (877) 769-3752 or use our Live Chat now if you have any questions.
Phone use and other distractions show up in both tickets and crash investigations. After a wreck, preserve evidence early.
Michigan has hands-free / distracted driving rules that limit certain phone use. Exact prohibitions and exceptions are in the statute and case facts—do not assume “mounted phone” is always fine.
Sometimes through witnesses, admissions, video, phone records in the right legal process, or scene evidence. Do not destroy devices or accounts that may matter.
No. Eating, reaching, screens, and other inattention can matter for fault even without a phone ticket.
Crash report narrative, witness contacts, any video leads, medical care, and photos of vehicles and scene.
When injuries are significant, the other driver denies distraction, or the insurer pushes early low offers before records are complete.
Call 877-769-3752 or Get a free case review. This page is general information, not legal advice for a specific case.