The new hands-free law prohibiting holding a cellphone while driving appears to be working to reduce inattentive driving crashes, said the Colorado Department of Transportation.

“In the first five months of the year, Colorado State Patrol responded to 1,161 crashes involving inattentive driving, a 19% decrease from the 1,432 crashes that occurred during the same span in 2024,” according to a news release from CDOT.

Penalties for violating the new hands-free 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. Repeat offenders face higher fines and more license suspension points.

Distracted driving remains the third leading cause of traffic crashes in Colorado. The 100 deadliest days of summer for traffic deaths traditionally occur between Memorial Day and Labor Day. In 2024, Colorado reported 220 traffic fatalities — 32% of all fatalities for the year.

Impairment, speed, not buckling up and distracted driving are the top factors in fatal crashes in Colorado, according to CDOT.

“Handheld technology is all around us, making it increasingly tempting to text and drive or glance at your phone at a stoplight,” said Col. Matthew C. Packard, chief of Colorado State Patrol, in a news release. “It’s more important than ever to focus on the road and your surroundings. Distracted driving deaths are entirely preventable.”

The law includes exemptions for individuals reporting emergencies, utility workers, code enforcement officers, animal protection officers, first responders and individuals in parked vehicles. These exceptions ensure that critical communications are not hindered in emergency or essential service situations.

For more information on the law, visit codot.gov/handsfreeco.