Hands Free law shows early impact on Missouri roadways

CAPE GIRARDEAU, Mo. (KBSI)– Missouri’s new hands-free driving law is already showing signs of success, with data showing a reduction in distracted driving across the state.

According to AAA spokesperson Nick Chabarria, there has been a 5% decrease in real time cell phone usage by drivers. This comes within the first year since the Siddens-Bening Hands-Free Law took effect. The data, gathered by Cambridge Mobile Telematics from drivers who opted in, suggests drivers are beginning to hear the message.

“The primary focus behind the law was to tell drivers how to stay safe, and that includes putting down their phones,” Chabarria said. “We’re seeing that drivers are getting the message, and we anticipate that continuing as awareness and enforcement grow.”

The law aims to reduce deaths on the roadways and promote safer driving habits. Chabarria, who worked closely with the widows the law is named after, said their advocacy is already creating change.

Cape Girardeau residents say the law is making a difference. “It’s very easy to get distracted while driving,” one resident said. “Phones are a great way to be distracted, so this helps us stay accountable.”

Chabarria talked about the broader impact of distracted driving, saying that in more than half of fatal crashes caused by distracted drivers, the victims are not the drivers themselves. “It’s not just about personal safety. It’s about protecting everyone on the road, passengers, pedestrians, and cyclists.”

As the law continues to be enforced, residents and officials together hope it will lead to safer roadways across Missouri.