Michigan's New Texting and Driving Law May Reduce Distracted Driving and Personal Injury Accidents

Distracted driving, including texting while driving, is the leading cause of personal injury accidents in Michigan. The current law for infractions which occurred before June 30, 2023, was a civil infraction and a $100 fine for a first offense. The new law makes it illegal to hold and use a mobile electronic device while operating a motor vehicle in Michigan. Michigan drivers can be pulled over and ticketed if seen using their hands to use a phone, including prohibiting a driver from the following:

  • Send or receive a telephone call.
  • Send, receive, or read a text message.
  • View, record, or transmit a video.
  • Access, read, or post to a social networking site.

First responders like firefighters, police officers, and emergency medical technicians are exempt from the new distracted driving law. All drivers are allowed to use electronic mobile devices to contact the appropriate authorities during an emergency.

In non-emergency circumstances, drivers may use mobile electronic devices in a "voice operated or hands-free mode". This means that drivers may not hold a mobile electronic device with any part of the hands, arms, or shoulders. Drivers can use electronic mobile devices to make phone calls or use navigation features so long as they place cell phones in a dashboard mount or connect cell phones to a touch screen that is built into the vehicle.

The Penalties for the New Law Include the Following:

  • A $100 fine for a first violation and/or 16 hours of community service. (MCL 257.602b(4)(a))
  • A $250 fine for a second or subsequent violation and/or 24 hours of community service. (MCL 257.602b(4)(b))
  • Drivers with 3 or more texting violations within a 3-year period must complete a "basic driver improvement course". (MCL 257.602b(8))
  • 1 point for a second texting-while-driving violation of MCL 257.602b. (MCL 257.320a(1)(y))
  • 2 points for third or subsequent texting-while-driving violation of MCL 257.602b. (MCL 257.320a(1)(x))

Hopefully, the new law will reduce the number of serious car accidents involving distracted driving in Michigan. If you have questions or need assistance with a personal injury claim, contact the Logeman, Iafrate & Logeman, PC law firm in Ann Arbor to speak with an attorney, free.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Michigan's new texting and driving law prohibit?

The law makes it illegal to hold or use a mobile electronic device while operating a motor vehicle. This includes sending or receiving calls, texting, viewing or recording videos, and accessing social media while holding the device.

When did Michigan's new distracted driving law take effect?

The new law became effective on June 30, 2023. Violations that occurred before this date were subject to the previous law with a $100 fine for first offenses.

Can I use my phone at all while driving in Michigan?

Yes, but only in hands-free or voice-operated mode. You must use a dashboard mount or built-in vehicle touch screen, and cannot hold the device with your hands, arms, or shoulders.

What are the penalties for violating Michigan's texting and driving law?

First violation: $100 fine and/or 16 hours of community service. Second or subsequent violations: $250 fine and/or 24 hours of community service. Multiple violations can result in points on your license and mandatory driver improvement courses.

Are there any exceptions to Michigan's distracted driving law?

Yes, first responders (firefighters, police officers, and emergency medical technicians) are exempt. All drivers may use mobile devices to contact authorities during emergencies.

How many points will I get on my license for texting while driving?

A second violation adds 1 point to your driving record. A third or subsequent violation adds 2 points. Drivers with 3 or more violations within 3 years must complete a basic driver improvement course.