Recently, the Missoula City Council passed a ban on all hand-held cell phone use while operating a vehicle, including motorcycles. Several cities have passed similar measures that banned various types of cell phone use in traffic.

Colorado laws restrict cell phone use while operating a vehicle based on age. No one under the age of 18 can use a cell phone at all while driving. Older drivers can use phones to make phone calls, but they cannot send texts, post on social media sites, write emails or send similar communications. Drivers and motorcycle operators can use cell phones in the event of an emergency.

Penalties

If police catch you texting while riding, you face a $50 fine and a point on your license. Subsequent violations carry a $100 fine and another point on the license. Keep in mind that police officers can legally pull you over and issue a citation if they notice you texting and operating a vehicle.

Solutions

Since it is difficult to prove that you were dialing a number instead of texting, we strongly urge bikers to use cell phones as little as possible on the road. Watch for road conditions and other vehicles turning into your lane that might not see you.

You might consider a headset or hands-free device that fits underneath a helmet. You can also attach a mount to your bike so you can easily answer a call quickly without digging in your pocket.

Distracted driving accidents killed 3,092 people in 2010, according to the U.S. Department of Transportation. If you lost a loved one in a distracted driving accident or motorcycle accident, we can help you reclaim damages on his or her behalf. Call us at (866) 377-3800 today to schedule a free case review.

Metier Law Firm, LLC – Denver injury lawyers