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 Michigan, texting while driving is prohibited for all drivers, as per the Michigan Vehicle Code (MCL 257.602b). This law makes it illegal to read, manually type, or send a text message while driving. Michigan also has restrictions on cell phone use for specific categories of drivers. Novice drivers, particularly those with a Level 1 or Level 2 graduated driver's license, are not allowed to use a cell phone while driving, according to MCL 257.602c. However, Michigan does not have a statewide ban on the use of hand-held phones for all drivers. Instead, hand-held phone use is generally allowed for experienced drivers, except in cases where local ordinances may impose stricter regulations. It's important for drivers in Michigan to be aware of and comply with any local ordinances that may apply in addition to state laws.