As of June 30, Michigan became the 26th state in the U.S. to adopt hands-free device legislation; a law that penalizes motorists found to be using cell phones without the use of hands-free technology.
[Above photo by Michigan DOT]
To raise awareness regarding that new legislation, the Michigan Department of Transportation is installing “Hands-Free Device Use” signs at 37 locations along state line and border crossings – an effort expected to continue through the summer of 2023 until all signs are in place.
In addition to highway signs, the agency plans to broadcast reminders to motorists regarding the new law via its dynamic message sign or DMS units as well.
Brad Wieferich, Michigan DOT director, noted in a statement that though texting while driving has been illegal in Michigan since 2010, increasing the parameters of the law to prohibit the use of cell phones without hands-free technology is expected to further improve safety for all road users, including passengers, pedestrians, and road workers.
“This legislation is a welcome addition in the fight to reduce roadway fatalities and injuries,” he said. “Improving safety for our road workers is a top priority for the department, and these new laws will help to ensure that our roads and work zones are protected from distracted driving.”
Additional information regarding this legislation and the penalties associated are available through the Michigan State Police Office of Highway Safety Planning website at www.Michigan.gov/DistractedDriving.
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