A report states that around 660,000 people in Michigan try to use their phones while driving, leading to approximately 1.6 million crashes each year.
To address this, three proposed bills, House Bill 4250, 4251, and 4252, aim to prohibit the use of any mobile device while driving, including social media, filming, and taking phone calls. There are a few exceptions, such as dash cameras and cell phones secured in a mount, and using phones to report an accident or crime.
First-time offenders would receive a $100 civil fine, with $250 for each subsequent offense, and fines would be doubled if a violation occurs during an accident. The bill has already been passed in the Michigan House of Representatives and is now moving to the Senate.
Motorists are advised to utilize built-in Bluetooth capability or invest in adapters for non-Bluetooth-capable cars to make phone calls while driving, but otherwise, cell phone use while driving in Michigan may soon be illegal.
Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell
