Although there is no federal (nationwide) law that prohibits texting or using a wireless phone while driving, many states have passed laws that prohibit such activities—and some municipalities (cities, towns) have also passed ordinances that restrict texting, talking, or emailing while driving. For example:

• 25 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, U.S. Virgin Islands, and Guam have banned drivers from hand-held phone use while driving.

• 48 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, U.S. Virgin Islands, and Guam have banned texting while driving for all drivers.

• 37 states and the District of Columbia prohibit all cell phone use by novice drivers.

• 23 states and the District of Columbia prohibit school bus drivers from cell phone use while driving.

For more information on state laws, visit the Governor Highway Safety Association page by copying this link and pasting it into your internet browser: https://www.ghsa.org/state-laws/issues/distracted%20driving

In Colorado, both texting and hand-held phone use while driving are regulated under state law. Texting while driving is prohibited for all drivers, which aligns with the majority of states in the U.S. This ban is in place to reduce distractions and increase road safety. Additionally, Colorado prohibits all cell phone use (hand-held or hands-free) for novice drivers, which typically includes drivers under the age of 18. However, Colorado does not have a statewide ban on hand-held phone use for all drivers, unlike the 25 states mentioned. Instead, it allows adults over 18 to use their phones in a hands-free mode. It's important to note that some cities or towns within Colorado may have their own ordinances that provide stricter regulations on mobile phone use while driving. Drivers in Colorado should be aware of both state laws and local ordinances to ensure they are in compliance while on the road.