DRIVERS risk being hit with hefty $100 fines if they are distracted behind the wheel thanks to a new law.
But road users have been warned that they could face even higher penalties if they are caught in certain areas.
The law, which is set to come into force on August 1, will crack down on those who are not fully concentrated.
It will crack down on road users who are scrolling on their cell phones while behind the wheel.
Penalties will start at $100 under the rules of the law, as reported by The Louisiana Illuminator.
But, fines will rise to $250 if drivers are caught violating the law within a school zone or construction area.
Drivers will only be allowed to answer their cell phones via hands-free devices such as Apple Watches.
But, road users will still be allowed to use their device while waiting at a stop light.
Drivers can still use their cell phones when they are reporting an accident.
Paramedics, for example, are also exempt as they use radio devices.
Under the terms of the law, drivers will enjoy a grace period.
Fines will not be issued until January 2026.
The new law will affect drivers across Louisiana and it has been hailed by senior politicians.
“Finally, this year we were able to pass a distracted driving bill,” Jeff Landry, the state’s governor, said.
Louisiana is just one of a slew of states that have introduced some kind of hands-free legislation.
In Pennsylvania, Paul Miller’s law came into force on June 5.
What defines ‘distracted driving’?
Distracted driving claims lives every year nationwide, and it’s 100% preventable
However, many drivers assume that distracted driving is limited to using their phone while behind the wheel.
While using a phone to text, call, send emails, scroll through or post to social media, and make or accept video calls is illegal nationwide, other behaviors can be just as distracting – and dangerous.
Other behaviors that distract drivers:
- Adjusting the radio or GPS
- Applying makeup in visor mirrors
- Eating and drinking, as it takes one or both hands from the wheel
- Reaching into the backseat to grab personal items
- Rummaging through a purse, glove box, or center console
Thankfully, driving distracted can be prevented. Here are some proven tactics to stay focused:
- Put your phone in “Do Not Disturb” or “Driving Mode,” as it temporarily pauses notifications, but will push a call or text through if urgent
- If distraction is difficult to avoid, put the phone in a safe place, like a purse, glove box, center console, or back seat
- If a text message or call needs to be sent or made, pull over and park
- Give the phone to a passenger when applicable to send a text or make a call
- Be a role model – practicing safe driving in front of impressionable passengers helps pass along safe behaviors
Source: National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, Connecticut Department of Transportation
Drivers cannot use their phone while waiting at a stop light.
Those who are caught breaking the law will be issued with a written warning.
Fines will start to come into force from June 2026, with penalties beginning at $50.
If a distracted driver causes a fatal crash, then they risk up to five years in prison.
Meanwhile, Iowa’s version of a hands-free law came into force on July 1.
Similarly, there is a grace period before fines are enforced, so drivers can become familiar with the law.
Fines will come into force in January 2026, starting at $100.
Drivers can use Bluetooth devices or vehicle mounts to ensure they comply with the law.
