Colorado Personal Injury Lawyer Blog
As of January 1, 2025, Colorado drivers are no longer allowed to hold a cell phone while operating a vehicle. The state’s new hands-free driving law is designed to reduce distracted driving crashes and make the roads safer for everyone.
What Changed Under the New Law?
For years, Colorado banned texting while driving. Now, that restriction extends to any use of a handheld device. Drivers cannot hold, type on, or scroll through a phone—even while stopped at a red light.
Hands-free technology, like Bluetooth systems, dashboard mounts, or Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, is permitted.
Who Must Comply?
- Drivers 18 and older must use hands-free accessories if they need to make calls or access apps.
- Drivers under 18 are still completely banned from using cell phones while driving.
- Exemptions exist for emergency calls, first responders, utility workers, and drivers who are safely parked.
Penalties for Violating the Law
Because handheld phone use is now a primary offense, police can pull you over solely for having a phone in your hand.
The penalties are:
- First offense: $75 fine and 2 license points (dismissed if you show proof of buying a hands-free accessory)
- Second offense: $150 fine and 3 license points
- Third and subsequent offenses: $250 fine and 4 license points
- If handheld phone use causes a crash that results in injury or death, a driver may face misdemeanor criminal charges with fines up to $1,000 and possible jail time.
Why It Matters
Distracted driving is one of the leading causes of accidents in Colorado. Even a momentary glance at a phone can result in life-changing injuries or fatalities. By requiring drivers to keep both hands on the wheel and eyes on the road, this law aims to prevent needless crashes.
Protecting Yourself After a Distracted Driving Crash
Unfortunately, laws don’t stop every unsafe driver. If you or a loved one has been injured in an accident caused by someone using their phone behind the wheel, you may be entitled to compensation for:
- Medical bills and ongoing treatment
- Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
- Pain, suffering, and emotional trauma
- Property damage
An experienced personal injury attorney can investigate the crash, preserve critical evidence (like phone records), and fight for the full compensation you deserve.
Colorado’s new hands-free law is a step in the right direction for safer roads. But if another driver’s distraction causes you harm, you shouldn’t have to carry the burden alone.
Our firm is here to help. Contact us today for a free consultation and let us fight for your rights.