According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), distracted driving is the leading cause of fatal and serious injury car crashes. According to NHTSA, the following statistics are true:
- Texting while driving at 55 mph is compared to driving the length of a football field with your eyes closed.
- 20% of individuals killed in a car crash by distracted drivers were pedestrians or bicyclists.
- Drivers who text or read emails while driving had slower reaction times than drivers with blood alcohol levels of .08 or the legal limit in Michigan.
- Hands-free talking can be just as dangerous as using a handheld phone, and talking on a cell phone causes drivers to have their visual field limited by more than 50%.
Safe Driving Tips from the Michigan State Police
- Set radio stations, climate control, GPS, and other devices before you begin driving.
- Set your vehicle or phone to driving mode if available.
- Keep necessary items within easy reach to prevent reaching down to the floor or back seat.
- Avoid eating, drinking, or smoking while driving.
- Pull off the road to attend to children or pets.
- Do personal grooming before leaving home or after reaching your destination.
- Avoid talking on the phone if possible.
Distracted Driving is Illegal in Michigan
Michigan law prohibits all drivers from using a handheld cell phone to text while driving. See MCL 257.602b(1). A conviction could result in serious jail time if distracted driving resulted in a serious injury to a motorist. Most states have laws against distracted driving, and a violation could lead to a suspended license. Parents must set a good example for children and never drive while distracted and make sure to frequently talk to young drivers about the dangers of driving while distracted.
Logeman, Iafrate & Logeman, P.C., is an experienced personal injury law firm practicing in the State of Michigan for more than 40 years. We are dedicated to providing outstanding client service and skilled legal advocacy in every case. If you have been injured in a serious accident or have questions about your personal injury claim, contact our Ann Arbor firm for a free consultation.
This article is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Consult a qualified attorney at Logeman & Iafrate, P.C. for advice regarding your individual situation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to what matters most about your case and how we work.
What is considered distracted driving in Michigan?
Distracted driving in Michigan includes any activity that diverts attention from driving, such as texting, talking on a handheld phone, eating, drinking, adjusting the radio or GPS, grooming, or attending to children or pets. Michigan law specifically prohibits texting while driving under MCL 257.602b(1).
Is hands-free phone use safe while driving?
No, hands-free talking can be just as dangerous as using a handheld phone. According to NHTSA, talking on a cell phone causes drivers to have their visual field limited by more than 50%, significantly increasing the risk of accidents.
What are the penalties for distracted driving in Michigan?
Michigan law prohibits using a handheld cell phone to text while driving. A conviction could result in fines, points on your license, and potentially serious jail time if distracted driving resulted in a serious injury or death to a motorist. A violation could also lead to a suspended license.
How does texting while driving compare to drunk driving?
Drivers who text or read emails while driving have slower reaction times than drivers with blood alcohol levels of .08, which is the legal limit in Michigan. Texting while driving at 55 mph is compared to driving the length of a football field with your eyes closed.
What should I do if I was injured by a distracted driver?
If you've been injured in an accident caused by a distracted driver, contact an experienced personal injury attorney immediately. Logeman, Iafrate & Logeman, P.C. has been practicing in Michigan for more than 40 years and offers free consultations to discuss your personal injury claim and legal options.
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