A new Colorado law signed Wednesday by Gov. Jared Polis bans the use of a cell phone while driving, except with a hands-free device or in emergency situations.
Violating the rule could result in fines. But amendments to Senate Bill 65 that were worked out by lawmakers downgraded it from a primary offense — meaning law enforcement will have to observe it in combination with another traffic violation to pull offending drivers over.
Still, Polis praised the bill before signing it. The law takes effect Aug. 11, and its rollout will include a public awareness campaign.
“Too many Coloradans suffer a major injury or even lose a loved one to distracted driving on the road,” the governor said in a statement provided by his office. “We are focusing on making Colorado one of the top 10 safest states, and this law will make our roads safer for everyone.”
Current law in Colorado had banned cellphone use by drivers younger than 18, with older drivers allowed to use phones for voice calls — but not texting or searching the internet.
Offenses of the new law can result in a $75 fine and two license suspension points for a first-time violation and up to a $250 fine and four points for third offenses. First-time violations of the law will be dismissed if the person ticketed shows they have a hands-free accessory or provide a proof of purchase.
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