Michigan Distracted Driving Law Expanding: What To Know

The Michigan House of Representatives just made a big move. They passed a plan that cracks down on distracted driving and using cell phones without hands-free capabilities while cruising down the roads. The current law only bans texting while driving, but this new plan takes things even further.

The bills that were just passed are set to become law on June 30th, right before Independence Day. This year, Independence Day falls on a Tuesday, so we'll have the whole weekend to celebrate while knowing that these new laws are in effect.

According to the main bill in the package, House Bill 4250, drivers won't be allowed to "hold or use a mobile electronic device" while behind the wheel. It covers everything from sending or receiving phone calls or text messages to watching, recording, or even sending videos. Also, reading or posting on a social networking site is a big no-no while driving. They're putting a stop to all the major distractions that can take our attention away from the road.

If someone gets caught violating it for the first time, they'll have to choose between paying a $100 fine or serving 16 hours of community service. But if they end up repeating the offense, the punishment gets harsher. A second violation will cost them $250 or 24 hours of community service. And here's the kicker: the fines double if they're involved in a crash.

If someone commits three violations of this law within three years, they’ll have to take a basic driving instruction course. It's like a mandatory refresher to remind them of the importance of safe driving.

Regarding House Bill 4252, the Michigan State Police will prepare a report on the new law. They will wait 42 months after it becomes effective, keeping track of various data. Looking at things like racial and demographic information on traffic stops related to distracted driving. Plus, they'll keep an eye on how many crashes, serious injuries, and even deaths are caused by violations of the law.

When it comes to exceptions, on-duty public safety workers are actually exempted from it. This would be people like police officers, firefighters, and paramedics. The ban also makes exceptions for emergency situations. So, if you find yourself in a critical moment and need to use your handheld device to call 9-1-1 or report something urgent like a reckless driver, crime, or traffic crash, you're allowed to do so.

You can still use your phone if it's mounted on a dashboard or if you're using hands-free technology. So, as long as you're not physically holding the phone while driving, you're in the clear.

If you're a fan of two-way radios like CB or ham radios, you can still use those too. They're not considered a violation under the new law. It's like keeping those old-school communication methods alive.

A vital exemption is if you have a medical device like an insulin pump that's designed to be worn, you're allowed to use it while driving.

Nowadays, it seems like car manufactures and designers are putting more and more features in new cars. Sometimes, it's to make the car sleeker in appearance or give the car or give the driver more benefits with their vehicle. Many drivers can become intimidated or overwhelmed by the technology of cars. From cruise control and assisted parking to Bluetooth connection and more.

In a poll by SWNSDigital.com, they found the top new car features people struggle with the most. They gathered their data by polling 500 car owners with vehicles less than two years old. The results showed 20 pieces of technology in a car that "baffle modern car owners."

According to the poll, 68 percent of the "struggle to get to grips with everything." While 40 percent don’t believe they're using their car to its full potential. Also found in the research, is that it took about six months for 55 percent to discover their car came with certain features.

Dr Martha Newson, cognitive psychologist who facilitated the consumer study said they proved that over half of drivers are missing out on the full experience of their vehicle. "With any car purchase being one of life's bigger spends, drivers should take more time understanding the tech available at their fingertips, so they don't miss out on safer, more comfortable and more pleasurable experiences, every time they get in the car," said Newson.

The feature that most people feel that they aren't using happens to be cruise control.  It's been around for quite some time. Surprisingly, at the bottom of the list is blind-spot alert, massage seats, and 360-degree cameras. Some may find features like a heated steering wheel, remote engine start, and climate control easy.

You can view the full list here.