Driving while holding a cell phone might be doable, but it is not safe. According to the Indiana Department of Transportation, it is a major cause of crashes due to distracted driving.
With the Indiana hands-free law in place, drivers cannot hold a phone while their vehicle is moving. The state aims to reduce accidents, citing that other states with hands-free laws experienced a decline in traffic deaths.
Not just for cell phones
Aside from cell phones, the law disallows drivers from holding tablets. As for smartwatches, they can only use them to check the time. In addition, drivers may use radios with caution such as citizens band, two-way and amateur.
Ways to go hands-free
As the name of the law suggests, drivers may still use mobile devices but not with their hands. They may take or make calls, use navigation applications and listen to music or podcasts by using any of these:
- Bluetooth technology
- Voice recognition technology
- Speakerphones
- Headphones
- Earpieces
- Brackets or mounts to view maps
- Other hands-free devices
Meanwhile, the law makes only one exception to drivers having a phone in their hands. This is when they face an emergency and need to call 911.
Penalties for holding a device
Drivers who violate the hands-free law will get a Class C infraction and must pay a fine. They may also get points on their driver’s license depending on the assessment. The state began adding points to records in July 2021.
Pursuing justice
Crashes due to distracted driving may be avoidable if drivers could only comply with the law. If you are a victim of a driver’s negligence, you may seek compensation for your injuries and other damages. Getting legal support may help you pursue justice while you are on the road to recovery.
