In today’s world, a lot of car accidents are caused by inattention while using a cell phone.  Although it is impossible to really know how many car accidents are the result of people not paying attention because they are busy using their cell phone, I happen to think the answer is much higher than any of the statistics out there may show.   Today, people are not only using their cell phones to talk, they use their cell phones or “smart phones” to email, search the web, watch Youtube videos or even play around on Facebook.   As a result, the amount of cell phone related car accidents has inevitably increased.

So what are the rules in Michigan for driving and using a cell phone?  Well unlike many other states, Michigan does not have a law specifically prohibiting cell phone use in a car.  However, a driver who becomes distracted while using a cell phone and commits a traffic violation can be charged with careless driving or some other violation.

In addition, in 2010 Michigan passed a law prohibiting the reading, typing or sending of a text message while a motorist is operating a moving car on a highway or street.    So forget texting while driving.  Not only is it stupid and dangerous, it’s illegal.

I must say I’m surprised Michigan law still permits motorists to actually hold their cell phones and talk while driving.  In many states, such as New York, motorists are only permitted to use their cell phones “hands-free.”   This means they are only allowed to use their cell phone through a hands-free device, such as a Bluetooth.  I believe it is only a matter of time before Michigan follows this standard – and hopefully sooner rather than later.