Michigan's distracted driving laws prohibit text messaging and place restrictions on cell phone use and electronic device use for all drivers. This article discusses the specifics of what the laws prohibit and the costs of a texting or cell phone ticket.
Michigan's distracted driving law generally prohibits holding or using a mobile electronic device while operating a motor vehicle. However, this prohibition doesn't apply to using a device or making a call with voice-operated or hands-free technology.
For motorists who are using a level I or II graduated license (typically, drivers under age 17) talking on a cell phone while driving is prohibited altogether. In other words, there's no exception for hands-free use.
The distracted driving law contains exceptions for:
However, apart from the GPS exception, it's hard to imagine that any of these situations come up very often.
The penalties for a distracted driving violation depend on the type of license the driver has and the driver's history.
Generally, a distracted driving ticket is a civil infraction and carries:
The fines are doubled if the violation resulted in a collision.
A first distracted driving violation won't lead to traffic violation demerit points. However, a second violation results in one point, and a third or subsequent violation results in two points.
For a third or subsequent offense with a three-year period, the driver will need to complete a driving safety course.
For commercial and school bus drivers:
As with normal distracted driving tickets, a second or subsequent commercial or school bus violation will result in points, and a third violation within three years comes with a safety class requirement.