Law enforcement reminding drivers to remain hands free

It has been less than a month since Missouri’s Hands-Free Law went into effect and law enforcement are continuing to see distracted driving.

The grace period is over for the Missouri law banning cellphone use while driving. The Siddens-Bening Hands-Free Law went into effect in August 2024 and was enforced in January this year, meaning drivers cannot hold or support a cellphone while behind the wheel.

Police are continuing to see texting and driving behind the wheel but are reminding drivers to also reduce other forms of distracted driving on the roadways.

“Distracted driving is always a concern and of course, the new Hands-Free law talks about that with cell phones,” said Sergeant James Tonn with the St. Joseph Police Department. “I sit and run radar all the time see the phones, people doing makeup or trying to eat food and all of it is a concern.”

The Hands-Free law has proven to be effective at reducing distracted driving in every state it has been applied and law enforcement officers plan to continue monitoring the roadways, making them safer.

“Warnings were being written at first, but it is in effect now and the state is allowing traffic tickets for that distracted driving law so put the phone down,” said Sgt. Tonn.

Motorist are reminded that The Siddens-Bening Hands-Free Law in Missouri has several exceptions, including:

• reporting emergencies

• First Responders using electronic devices as part of their official duties

However, if it isn’t an emergency, drivers should avoid cell phones and all other distractions while operating a vehicle.