Greetings,

Effective January 1, 2025, the State of Colorado has updated CRS 42-4-239, which governs the misuse of mobile communication devices while driving.

Key Changes:

Previously, drivers 18 years and older were allowed to use a mobile device while driving, but if their use contributed to a primary traffic violation (e.g., speeding, careless driving, or reckless driving), they could face an additional charge for “Misuse of a Mobile Communication Device.”

Under the new law, drivers 18 and older are now prohibited from using a cell phone while driving or stopped in traffic. "Use" is defined as any action that transmits information via a mobile device, including talking or texting.

However, “Misuse of a Mobile Communication Device” remains a secondary offense, meaning officers must first observe a primary traffic violation before citing a driver for mobile device use.

The law continues to prohibit drivers under 18 from using a mobile device while driving or stopped in traffic.

Exceptions to the Law:

Drivers may use a mobile device in the following situations:

• To contact public safety entities
• During emergencies (e.g., reporting a fire, accident, or medical emergency)
• To respond to utility emergencies
• If acting as a code enforcement or animal protection officer
• If acting as a first responder
• If using a hands-free device (e.g., dashboard mount or vehicle Bluetooth system)

The Dangers of Distracted Driving:

Speeding, aggressive driving, and distracted driving are among the leading causes of fatal and injury-related crashes in the U.S. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) in 2024:

• Distracted driving contributed to 8% of all fatal crashes, resulting in 2,841 deaths.
• 15% of all injury crashes (over 400,000 injuries) were linked to distracted driving.
• 14% of all police-reported crashes involved distracted drivers.

The Impact of Distraction on Reaction Time:

A driver’s ability to avoid a crash depends on perception and reaction time—the time it takes to recognize a hazard and respond.

For example, at 65 mph, a vehicle travels 95.29 feet per second. The average driver requires 1.5 seconds to perceive and react to a hazard, meaning they will have traveled approximately 143 feet before even beginning to brake.

Using a mobile device while driving significantly delays reaction time and increases the risk of crashes.

For your safety and the safety of others, please stay focused on the road and follow Colorado’s updated mobile device laws.

Stay safe,

Golden Police Department

Colorado officials making sure people know about the new phone law while driving