Hands-Free, Not Danger-Free: An Update on Michigan's Plan To Cut Distracted Driving (04-12-26)

About this episode

The episode discusses the rise in distracted driving fatalities in Michigan despite the Hands-Free Law and explores enforcement efforts and safety initiatives.

On this segment of West Michigan Weekend , host Phil Tower sits down with A licia Sledge, Director of Michigan’s Office of Highway Safety Planning (OHSP), to discuss the critical issue of distracted driving. Despite the implementation of Michigan’s Hands-Free Law , recent data shows a concerning rise in mobile device use and driver fatalities. This episode breaks down the latest statistics and the state’s high-visibility enforcement efforts aimed at reversing these deadly trends. In this episode, you’ll learn about: Current Trends: Why distracted-driving fatalities increased by 10% last year, even as overall crashes dipped. The Hands-Free Law: A reminder of the legal and financial consequences for violating mobile device restrictions. SAFER by 2030: Michigan's collaborative initiative to reduce traffic fatalities by 30% over the next decade. Safer Habits: Practical advice for staying focused and keeping Michigan roadways safe for everyone. For more information, visit: Michigan.gov/DistractedDriving Michigan.gov/SAFERby2030

People in this episode

Host: Phil Tower

Guest: Alicia Sledge

Topics covered

• distracted driving
• Hands-Free Law
• traffic safety
• driver fatalities
• enforcement efforts
• SAFER by 2030

Keywords

• distracted driving
• Michigan
• Hands-Free Law
• traffic fatalities
• SAFER by 2030
• mobile device use
• enforcement

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Michigan’s Office of Highway Safety Planning

Places: Michigan

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