New Hands-Free Law Takes Effect in Indiana

A new law regarding the use of cellphones while driving went into effect July 1, 2020 that could impact drivers across Indiana. The law, often referred to as the "Hands-Free Law", prohibits drivers from operating a moving vehicle while holding a cellphone or similar device. In addition to creating stricter rules regarding the use of phones in vehicles, the Hands-Free Law also imposes new penalties for drivers caught using their phone while driving. While the new rule imposes new limitations on drivers, there are some cases where phone use in cars could be allowed.

Details of the Hands-Free Law

The new Indiana law was passed in efforts to reduce accidents related to distracted driving in the state. Under the law, drivers are prohibited from holding any mobile device while driving a vehicle. This includes devices such as phones, GPS systems, tablets, or similar devices.

"While in general the use of a mobile device while operating a vehicle is prohibited, there are some situations where it may be permitted," said atto ey Michael McCready of McCready Law. "Indiana law enforcement officials have stated that drivers may be able to use their phone while at a red light. Additionally, drivers may be permitted to use hands-free capabilities such as Bluetooth, or pull over to operate their phone. However, minimizing distractions overall could effectively reduce the likelihood of an accident occurring."

Individuals caught violating the Hands-Free Law could face a fine up to $500. Additionally, starting in July of 2021, drivers using their handheld devices while operating a vehicle may have points assigned against their license.

Statistics Related to Distracted Driving

According to the National Highway Traffic and Safety Administration (NHTSA), an estimated 400,000 individuals were injured as a result of distracted driving accidents in 2018. Several studies have also found that the risk of an accident could be up to six times greater whenever a driver is operating a cellphone while driving. This is in part due to attention a driver spends focusing on their phone rather than the road. According to the Indiana Department of Transportation (INDOT), a driver sending a text is distracted from the roadway for an average of 5 seconds at a time.

Other States and Hands-Free Laws

Indiana joins 15 other states and the District of Columbia with the adoption of hands-free laws. According to data from the National Safety Council and Insurance Federation (NSFIF), traffic fatalities decrease on average by 16 percent following the adoption of hands-free laws. This contributed to a decrease in traffic fatality rates for 12 states that adopted similar laws.

Previous Cell Phone Use Laws in Indiana

Prior to the passage of the Hands-Free Law, Indiana did have some laws limiting the use of cellphones while driving. Indiana had previously passed a law that banned texting while driving in 2011. Under the 2011 law, drivers were able to use mobile devices while driving. This created challenges for many police officers and other officials to enforce the law. The difficulty enforcing prior traffic laws, among other factors, led to the development and passing of the new Indiana Hands-Free Law.