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Auto Blog
07-07-2025
- Automotive
- Auto Blog
Multiple States Dial-up Crackdown on Cell Phone Use While Driving
The nationwide shift toward hands-free cell phone usage for drivers Most states have strict laws in place to prevent distracted driving through cell phone use, and Iowa and Louisiana are the latest to join this effort. Since July 1, Iowa drivers have been prohibited from using a phone while driving, except for hands-free operation. Louisiana's new distracted driving law imposes the same rules, but takes effect on August 1. Sgt. Alex Dinkla, public information officer for the Iowa State Patrol, explained that drivers don't need to buy a new smartphone to comply with the state's new law via platforms like Apple CarPlay. Instead, he recommended Bluetooth, auxiliary cables, and phone mounts as ways that more drivers can comply with the latest enforcement, IPR reports. Iowa police will issue warnings for the first months of enforcement so motorists can adjust their habits. However, starting January 1, the state's police can give $100 citations. Iowa's new law outlines exceptions for emergencies and certain employees, including those in public safety and public transit. According to the Iowa Department of Transportation, over 900 crashes occurred last year due to drivers being distracted by their phones or other electronic devices. Iowa state line sign — Source: Getty Louisiana's new law also provides exceptions for emergencies and certain employees in addition to calls for reporting traffic collisions. Officials in Louisiana passed the law as part of the state's effort to lower high auto insurance costs, as fewer distracted drivers naturally pose less risk for insurers. Louisiana lawmakers made efforts before this year's legislative session to ban cell phone use while driving except for hands-free operation, but progress stalled over concerns that police would use the rule as an excuse to perform traffic stops and vehicle searches. The law eventually passed when Louisiana legislators added a provision preventing police from conducting searches or making arrests based solely on a cell phone use violation, according to the Louisiana Illuminator. Drivers who violate Louisiana's new distracted driving law face a fine of up to $100, but this amount increases to a $250 maximum citation if the offense occurs in a school or construction zone. Pennsylvania preceded Iowa and Louisiana's laws On June 5, Pennsylvania also started enforcing a ban on handheld use of a cell phone, tablet, or any other electronic device while driving, including at a red light. Iowa's law allows for handheld cell phone usage if a car is stationary, but the vehicle must be off a traveled portion of the road. Conversely, Louisiana's new legislation appears to permit handheld cell phone use if a car is stationary at a stoplight. Pennsylvania's Department of Transportation reported 9,950 crashes caused by distracted driving last year, which resulted in more than 6,000 injuries and 49 fatalities, according to Pennsylvania Capital-Star. The warning period for Pennsylvania's enforcement extends further than Iowa or Louisiana, with fines of up to $50 starting in June 2026. Louisiana State Trooper car — Source: Getty Final thoughts Currently, 31 states, along with the District of Columbia, outlaw handheld cellphone use while driving. While Louisiana, Iowa, and Pennsylvania's new bans aim to increase road safety, Louisiana stands out with its desire to also use the legislation as a way to reduce car insurance costs. rates Louisiana as the most expensive U.S. state for auto insurance, with an annual cost of $2,883 for a full coverage policy. About the Author Cody Carlson View Profile
Yahoo
01-06-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Upstate GOP lawmaker pushing bill to allow hands-free gas pumps in New York — joining rest of United States
New Yorkers might finally be able to go hands-free at the gas pump if one upstate lawmaker gets his way. State Sen. Joe Griffo (R-Onedia) has introduced a bill to greenlight the use of clips to hold open gas pump nozzles throughout the Empire State — devices already legal in the country's 49 other states. Griffo said he sponsored the legislation after investigating the matter following complaints from constituents. 'This bill would bring New York State in line with the rest of the country, [and] protect the elderly and other New Yorkers by limiting their exposure to harsh and potentially dangerous weather conditions when pumping gas, and [it would] rein in government overreach,' Griffo said in a statement to The Post Saturday. The bill, introduced April 15, will be 'supported by many, especially given advances in pump technology and station safety features.' New York's fire code has not allowed gas clips since the early 1980s, when self-service pumps were first approved. There were concerns then that the devices could fail and allow gas to overflow out of a vehicle, but the worries have been unwarranted based on use in other states. Griffo has compared the gas clip-rules to government overreach, limiting the number of gallons per minute that flow through showerheads and other appliances, such as dishwashers, washing machines and toilets. President Donald Trump signed an executive order last month calling for an immediate end to water pressure regulations implemented by former Presidents Joe Biden and Barack Obama, touting the action will make 'America's Showers Great Again' — and keep his signature blond hair 'beautiful.'
