Missouri hands-free law leads to thousands of citations as enforcement increases

FOX23 News at 9 p.m

MISSOURI (KBSI) — Missouri’s hands-free driving law is showing early impacts as enforcement increases, according to a new analysis from AAA Missouri.

The law, which took full effect Jan. 1, 2025, prohibits drivers from holding or manually using a phone while driving, with limited exceptions for hands-free use.

Since enforcement began, the Missouri State Highway Patrol has issued more than 4,000 citations and warnings to drivers for violations, including cases tied to fatal crashes.

AAA said distracted driving contributed to about 1 in 10 fatal crashes in Missouri between 2014 and 2024, resulting in more than 1,000 deaths.

Officials said cell phones remain the most common source of distraction, contributing to thousands of crashes each year.

Safety advocates continue to urge drivers to eliminate distractions and use hands-free options to help reduce crashes and save lives.