Distracted Driving Update

Governor Holcomb has signed HB 1070 into law for the state of Indiana. The bill modifies the existing  2011 Indiana law addressing texting, and broadens it to include all use. The new bill provides that, except in certain circumstances, a person may not hold or use a telecommunications device while operating a moving motor vehicle. The amendments to the law go into effect, July 1, 2020. While drivers may be assessed a fine up to $500, the Bureau of Motor Vehicles may not assess points under the point system for a violation occurring before July 1, 2021.

APPLIES TO ALL DRIVERS

Under the new law, all drivers will be required to avoid using hand-held telecommunication devices except under special circumstances. Those include allowing hands-free or voice-activation use of the device, or allowing hand-held use in the event of a bona-fide emergency. While this has previously only applied to texting, emailing, or other forms of messaging, the new law applies to all use while operating a motor vehicle.  

WHAT IS “DISTRACTED DRIVING?”

Distracted driving is any non-driving activity a motorist engages in that has the potential to distract him or her from the primary task of driving. Distractions can be visual – taking your eyes off the road,  manual – taking your hands off the wheel, and cognitive – taking your mind off of your activity. The National Safety Council states that in 2018, 2,841 people died as a result of a distracted driving 
accident.