State law enforcement and transportation officials are reminding all drivers that a new Colorado law goes into effect Jan. 1 banning driving while holding a cell phone.

Colorado leaders are implementing the new law to reduce dangerous distracted driving by prohibiting people from using a mobile electronic device while driving unless they use a hands-free accessory, according to a Colorado Department of Transportation media release.

“This new legislation is a crucial step toward making Colorado’s roads safer for everyone,” said Shoshana Lew, CDOT executive director. “By encouraging drivers to focus solely on the task of driving, we can reduce the number of distracted driving incidents and prevent crashes that often come with such behavior. This law aligns with best practices from across the nation and reflects our commitment to protecting all road users, whether in a vehicle, on a bike or walking.”

Colorado joins 29 other states in prohibiting the use of hand-held mobile devices while driving. States with similar laws have reported decreases in distracted driving crashes, according to CDOT.

According to CDOT’s 2024 Driver Behavior Report, 77% of Colorado drivers admitted to using their phones while driving, and studies show that using a mobile device while driving increases the risk of a crash by two to six times.

During the first six months this year, officials reported 294 fatalities on Colorado roads, down 9% from the same time last year, yet the top factors in these crashes were impairment, speed and distracted driving.

CDOT notes that distracted drivers pose a particularly high risk to vulnerable road users such as pedestrians and bicyclists. From 2015 to 2023, deaths among pedestrians and bicyclists increased by 50% and 112.5%, respectively, while Colorado’s population grew by less than 8% during the same period, according to CDOT.

CDOT officials urge all drivers to begin putting down their phones when driving and are encouraging drivers to acquire hands-free accessories such as dashboard mounts and car speakerphone systems to be ready to comply with the new law.

Penalties for violating the new law start with a $75 fine and two license suspension points for the first offense. First-time violators can have the charge dismissed if they provide proof of purchasing a hands-free accessory.

The law includes exemptions for individuals reporting emergencies, utility workers, code enforcement officers, animal protection officers, first responders and individuals in parked vehicles. To learn more, visit COdot.gov/handsfreeco.

Drivers may not hold or handle their cellphones at any time while driving. Only hands-free calls are permitted. Handling the phone to initiate a call must be done before entering the roadway. No touching or handling of cellphones while driving is permitted, including while stopped at traffic signals.

“For a long time, troopers have been able to detect when someone is driving distracted by a vehicle weaving between lanes, delayed starts at stop signs and lights,” said Col. Matthew Packard, chief of Colorado State Patrol.