02/10/25 - Fewer Drivers Using Handheld Devices While Driving

Safety figures are improving as fewer drivers are getting distracted.

Fewer of us are driving while handling our devices. 

The researchers credit Michigan’s “hands-free” law that went into effect June 30, 2023, and prohibits drivers from using a phone or electronic device while driving with having a positive impact.

A new survey out of the U of M and MSU was conducted over a 21-day period following the Memorial Day annual 'Click-it-or-Ticket' safety campaign. The survey found a slight decline in the number of drivers using a handheld device while operating a motor vehicle. Tim Gates at MSU says “It translates to 96-thousand fewer drivers using those devices.” 

The survey also found that drivers under the age of 30 were approximately twice as likely to use a handheld mobile device compared to drivers aged 30 to 59 years.

For more details, visit Handheld.