WPBN: There are only a few weeks left before a new legislation that targets a common infraction is implemented, which will result in two license points and $75 fines for violators.
Colorado will outlaw using a phone while operating a motor vehicle starting in 2025. However, citations cannot be issued by police until specific requirements are fulfilled.
The Centennial State’s Mobile Electronic Devices & Motor Vehicle Driving law will go into force on January 1. Only in cases where the infraction is a secondary offense will drivers receive tickets.
This implies that if the driver is caught committing a primary traffic infraction while holding their phone, they will receive a citation. Risky behaviors including speeding, irresponsible driving, and running a red light are examples of primary traffic violations.
The law would still permit using a phone hands-free, but it will be illegal to use a phone while driving.
First responders at work and drivers who are required to call 911 in the event of an emergency are the only two exceptions. For a first offense, drivers will receive two points on their license and a $75 fine.
By presenting a receipt to a judge proving they took steps to change their conduct, people will be entitled to escape fines under the statute. These might include evidence that they bought a dash mount or other hands-free equipment.
“We know that just glancing at your phone for five seconds at highway speed is like driving blindfolded the entire length of a football field,” Skyler McKinley with AAA Colorado stated to 9News .
The Colorado Department of Transportation reports that over three-quarters of drivers have acknowledged using a cellphone while operating a motor vehicle.
The Hands-Free Law in Colorado
Colorado will implement a new law starting next month:
On January 1, 2025, a new Colorado rule that forbids drivers from using mobile electronic devices while driving—though hands-free accessories are allowed—will take effect in an effort to improve road safety and lower the number of distracted driving collisions. The new regulation prohibits more than just texting on cellphones.
All drivers are now required to use a hands-free device, which includes holding or manually using a phone or other mobile device for voice calls or any other purpose.
A $75 fine and two license suspension points are the first penalties for breaking the law.
Repeat offenders lose more license points and pay larger fines. If a first-time offender can show that they bought a hands-free accessory, the prosecution may be dropped. Bluetooth headsets, dashboard mounts, CarPlay, Android auto, and car speaker phone systems are examples of hands-free equipment.
The following hands-free devices are suggested by the state to help drivers concentrate on the road while using their phones.
These include phone mounts or dashboards, which hold a phone in a visible but secure location so that hands-free calls or navigation can be used without the device being held.
Android Auto and Apple CarPlay are examples of aftermarket or built-in systems that can connect your smartphone to your car’s screen. This enables you to use voice commands on your car’s interface to control your phone.
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As an alternative, you can make use of integrated automotive speaker systems, like Bluetooth-enabled systems that provide audio navigation and hands-free communication.
If your car does not have Bluetooth, you can buy plug-in devices that use your car’s current radio system to activate the capability.
