Handheld phone use drops among Missouri drivers following hands-free law, AAA says

FOX23 News at 9 p.m

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo., (KBSI) — Handheld phone use among Missouri drivers has declined since the state’s hands-free law took effect, according to new data released by AAA Missouri.

An analysis by Cambridge Mobile Telematics found handheld phone use decreased by about 16% after the law went into effect in July 2023.

Officials said the law, known as the Siddens Bening Hands-Free Law, prohibits drivers from holding or manually operating a phone while driving, with limited exceptions.

AAA spokesperson Nick Chabarria said the data shows drivers are beginning to change their behavior.

“Missouri drivers are getting the message to put down the phone and just drive,” Chabarria said.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol said more than 4,000 citations and warnings have been issued since the law’s penalty phase began in January 2025.

Authorities said distracted driving remains a concern, noting it contributed to about 1 in 10 fatal crashes in Missouri between 2014 and 2024.

Officials are encouraging drivers to limit distractions by putting phones away, setting navigation before driving and avoiding multitasking behind the wheel.