LANSING – The House Transportation Committee today approved a plan proposed by State Representative Gino H. Polidori (D-Dearborn) that aims to cut down on dangerous distracted driving by prohibiting drivers from making or receiving phone calls or text messages on hand-held cell phones while operating a motor vehicle; the bill allows drivers to use hands-free devices.
"Cell phones take drivers' attention away from the road and put our residents at risk," Polidori said. "This plan will cut down on distracted driving, which will help prevent accidents and save lives. This is a common sense plan that will make our roads safer."
The bill would make the use of a hand-held cell phone while driving a secondary offense, meaning that a ticket can be issued only if the driver has been pulled over for a different violation, such as speeding. A violation would result in a $100 fine; no points would be added to a driver's record for a violation.
The legislation offers exceptions for drivers who use a phone to report an accident, a road hazard, or a suspected criminal act. It also allows police, fire, and emergency personnel to use phones when carrying out official duties.
Several other states and municipalities have adopted similar proposals. Connecticut, the District of Columbia, New Jersey and New York already have banned the use of hand-held cell phones while driving. A California law is scheduled to take effect in July. In Michigan, the city of Dearborn passed an ordinance last year that levies a $100 fine on any driver caught on a cell phone.
"Michigan has many other safety precautions in place for drivers," Polidori said. "We require drivers and passengers to wear seat belts. We prohibit drunken driving. Keeping drivers off the phone and focused on the road will go a long way toward eliminating safety threats to other drivers and innocent bystanders."