Colorado drivers must put down cellphones starting January 1
Colorado is taking a step toward reducing distracted driving with a new law that prohibits the use of hand-held mobile devices behind the wheel. Starting Jan. 1, 2025, drivers will be required to use hands-free accessories, such as Bluetooth devices, speakerphones, or dashboard mounts.
The Colorado Department of Transportation says 77% of Colorado drivers admitted to using their phones while driving. Texting and driving is already illegal.
Skyler McKinley, Regional Director of Public Affairs for AAA, says technology and smartphone addiction have made distracted driving more prevalent than ever.
"A texting ban was probably enough, but that was before our phones were our wallets before they were our televisions, before there were radio sets, before they were our daily lives," said McKinley.
Colorado joins 29 other states in implementing a hands-free driving law.
"Ohio recently passed a hands-free bill that's similar to what's been passed in Colorado. In its first year of enforcement, it saw a decline of about 1000 crashes in Ohio on the basis of distraction. The fatality rate over that same period went down about 20%," said McKinley.
Studies show that distracted driving increases the risk of crashes by up to six times, especially for pedestrians and bicyclists, who are particularly vulnerable. In 2023, a record-setting number of pedestrians were killed in Colorado.
In urban areas, residents like Greg Thow, who walk everywhere, dodge distracted drivers daily.
"Every third car has someone on their phone," Thow said, adding that he's had numerous close calls. "I think this law could change things, but there need to be real penalties."
Penalties for violating the law begin with a $75 fine and two license suspension points for a first offense. First-time violators can have their charges dismissed if they provide proof of purchasing a hands-free accessory. Repeat offenders will face increased fines and additional license suspension points.
The law includes exemptions for emergency situations, allowing individuals reporting emergencies, utility workers, and first responders to continue using their phones as needed.
For more information on the law, visit the CDOT website at codot.gov/handsfreeco.
