Colorado’ Hands-Free Law Brings Drop in Distractions
In response to the rising number of distracted driving accidents across the state, Colorado implemented a hands-free driving law that took effect on January 1, 2025. This legislation was introduced to curb the use of handheld devices while operating a vehicle and to reduce preventable traffic collisions. Under the new law, drivers are prohibited from holding or manually interacting with cell phones or other electronic devices while the vehicle is in motion or stopped in traffic. However, hands-free options such as Bluetooth, dashboard mounts, or voice-activated systems are permitted.
What’s Allowed and What’s Not:
Drivers are expected to keep both hands free at all times and refrain from making calls, browsing, or texting unless using a legally approved hands-free accessory. Even while waiting at a red light or in standstill traffic, manual device use is not allowed. If a driver must make a call or send a message, it must be done through voice commands or other hands-free methods.
Early Impact:
In the few months since the law was enacted, initial results have already shown encouraging progress. Reports from the Colorado Department of Transportation indicate a decline in distracted driving crashes statewide. The early data suggests that the policy may be a vital step toward improving roadway safety.
The “100 Deadliest Days”
The timing of the law’s rollout is particularly important as Colorado enters the summer months, commonly known as the “100 Deadliest Days” on the road. This period, stretching from Memorial Day to Labor Day, historically sees an uptick in serious accidents. Contributing factors include increased traffic from recreational travel, more inexperienced teenage drivers on the road, and the general rise in distractions during vacation season. Many drivers are preoccupied with GPS navigation, texting, or using apps, taking their focus off the road.
Teen Drivers and Risk
Teen drivers, in particular, are at heightened risk during this season. With more free time and less driving experience, younger drivers are more susceptible to distractions, especially from mobile devices. The hands-free law is expected to serve as a critical deterrent during these months, helping to reduce risky behaviors behind the wheel.
Data from the Colorado State Patrol supports this positive trend. As of March 2025, just two months after the law went into effect, authorities had issued 94 citations for hands-free violations. That figure represents a 135% increase compared to the same period in 2024. These citations not only reflect increased enforcement but also highlight how prevalent distracted driving remains.
Promising State and Third-Party Results
The same CDOT report also revealed an 11% drop in traffic-related fatalities compared to the previous March. Given that distracted driving has long been one of the leading contributors to fatal crashes, this reduction may point to the law’s early effectiveness.
In addition to state reporting, third-party research from Cambridge Mobile Telematics (CMT) in February 2025 found a 3.3% decline in phone use while driving across Colorado. Their analysis estimated that within the first month of enforcement, the hands-free mandate prevented 88 collisions, 49 injuries, and saved approximately $3.5 million in economic losses.
Despite these promising numbers, distracted driving hasn’t disappeared entirely. Motorists should remain vigilant, as distractions can stem from a range of sources beyond phone use, including eating, talking to passengers, adjusting the radio, or simply daydreaming. If you’re involved in a collision caused by a distracted driver, it’s essential to understand your legal rights and take the appropriate steps toward compensation.
Penalties for Violations
Penalties under the new law are designed to encourage compliance. First-time offenders face a $75 fine and two points against their driver’s license. However, if the offender provides proof of purchasing a hands-free device, the charge may be dismissed. Repeat violations carry more severe fines and additional license points.
For more information, please contact Blass Law or visit the Colorado Department of Transportation’s website to read their helpful Frequently Asked Questions section on this topic: CodotColorado Hands-Free Law
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