LANSING, MI— Law enforcement will be on the lookout for drivers who aren’t paying attention to the road this month.
Monday signaled the start of Distracted Driving Awareness Month. According to Michigan Traffic Crash Facts, in 2022 there were 15,441 car crashes, 5,905 injuries, and 57 deaths involving distracted drivers.
A new law went into effect last summer that makes Michigan a “hands-free” driving state. It bans drivers from using hand-held cell phones, even when stopped at a light or stop sign.
A first violation of the law means a $100 ticket and/or 16 hours of community service. A second offense could lead to a $250 ticket and/or 24 hours of community service. For a third offense within three years, the driver is required to complete a driving improvement course.
