Like many states, Indiana has hands-free laws that regulate the use of cell phones and devices while driving. These laws are designed to reduce the risk of distracted driving, which can lead to accidents and injuries on the road.
Operating a vehicle in the state of Indiana requires you to be aware of all the laws of the road. As such, it is important for all drivers to understand Indiana's hands-free laws and how to abide by them properly. Violating these laws can lead to hefty fines and other penalties, so it is essential for all motorists in Indiana to remain informed about these regulations.
What is the Hands-free law in Indiana?
In 2011 the first law in Indiana was enacted. This law prohibited drivers from using their phones to send or receive text messages, emails, or any other type of electronic communication while operating a vehicle but the law did not address holding a cell phone or device. So, In addition to the texting ban, Indiana has also enacted a ban on using handheld phones while driving. This law, which went into effect in 2020, prohibits drivers from holding their phones or other electronic devices while operating a vehicle. Drivers are still allowed to use their phones for navigation or to make phone calls, but they must do so using a hands-free device, such as a Bluetooth headset or a dashboard-mounted phone mount.
Are there exceptions to Indiana's hands-free laws?
There are some exceptions to these hands-free laws in Indiana. For example, drivers are allowed to use their phones to report an emergency situation or to seek help in the event of a breakdown. Additionally, commercial drivers are allowed to use handheld phones while driving if they are using a hands-free device that is specifically designed for commercial vehicles.
What are the fines and penalties for violating Indiana's hands-free laws?
If a driver is caught violating any of the hands-free laws, they will be subject to a fine ranging from $75-$500 depending on their previous infractions. More severe violations can lead to jail time or fines of up to $10,000, depending on the circumstances. Furthermore, points could be added to their license, which could result in higher insurance rates and even the suspension of their license if they accumulate too many points over time.
Why is using a device while driving dangerous?
Using a cell phone while driving can be incredibly risky. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), texting and emailing behind the wheel increases your risk of crashing up to 23 times compared to not using your phone at all. That's because using a cell phone takes your attention away from the road and reduces reaction time if an unexpected obstacle appears. This could mean anything from slamming on the brakes too late or missing a stop sign entirely.
Driving distracted
The most obvious danger of using a cell phone while driving is distraction. Even if you only glance away from the road for a few seconds, you can lose track of your surroundings in an instant and miss something important, like another car swerving into your lane or an incoming emergency vehicle. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), distraction-related crashes kill more than 3,000 people every year in the United States alone. It is estimated that approximately 66% of these deaths are due to cell phone use while driving.
Decreased reaction time
In addition to distracted driving, studies have also shown that talking or texting on your phone while driving can cause a decrease in reaction time when faced with an unexpected situation on the road. This means that if something suddenly happens, such as another vehicle merging onto your lane without warning, it will take longer for you to react and take appropriate action. This could be especially dangerous if you are going at high speed or in heavy traffic conditions where other vehicles may not be able to slow down quickly enough to avoid an accident.
Increased Risk Of Accidents
Finally, studies have found that talking or texting on a cell phone while driving increases the risk of accidents significantly—even more so than drinking and driving or smoking marijuana! This is because using a phone forces you to divide your attention between two tasks—talking/texting and operating the vehicle—which increases your chances of making mistakes when behind the wheel.
Conclusion
Indiana's hands-free laws are designed to reduce the risk of distracted driving and keep roads safer for all drivers. By following these laws and using hands-free devices while driving, you can help prevent accidents and injuries on the road. Cell Phone Seat is ideal for mounting your phone safely in your vehicle, making it easy to view and use voice commands, but keeping it secured and out of your hands.