It will soon be illegal to hold a cell phone while driving in Michigan. Governor Gretchen Whitmer signed the anti-distracted driving bill into law this week. Berrien County Undersheriff Chuck Heit tells us his department is ready to enforce the new law, regarding it as better than the old law that merely banned texting while driving.
“From out standpoint, it actually makes it a little easier,” Heit said. “The current law is strictly you can’t text while driving, whereas now it’s a hands-free option. You can’t hold a cellphone for any reason. It’s a hands-free option, which surrounding states already have.”
Heit says it’s much easier for police to see someone talking on a phone or holding one up. Before, they had to prove the person was texting. This will be a primary offense, and the penalty for a first offense will be a $100 fine. For the second or subsequent violations, it will be a $250 fine. If you’re caught breaking the law three times within a three-year period, you’ll be ordered by the court to complete a driver safety course.
