What Drivers Need to Know about Idaho's Hands-Free Device law

January 6, 2021

Beginning Friday, January 1, 2021, drivers reported in violation of Idaho's "hands-free" device code risk receiving a citation.

Since July, Boise Police and law enforcement across the state have been working to educate motorists about the dangers of distracted driving and the state's new "hands-free" device law.

According to the Idaho Transportation Department’s Office of Highway Safety:

  • Between 2015 and 2019 there were 25,170 distracted driving crashes in Idaho killing 237 people.
  • Nationally, distracted driving was a factor in nine percent of all traffic fatalities in 2019 – in Idaho, it was 16 percent.

"If you're texting or using a device, you're not driving," said ISP Sgt. Curt Sproat. "For a lot of people, devices have become a habit, but it's a very dangerous habit when we're driving. That's why the law is in place and if a citation is the incentive some drivers need to put the device down and focus on the road, officers now have that option."

hands-free law

What Drivers Need to Know about Idaho's Hands-Free Device law, ISC 49-1401A:

  • Idaho's hands-free device law requires electronic devices to be in hands-free mode while driving, including when stopped at a red light or stop sign. In other words, with few exceptions, the new hands-free law makes holding a cell phone illegal while operating a vehicle;
  • Drivers can only use electronic devices and mobile phones in hands-free mode;
  • Drivers are only permitted to touch devices to activate hands-free mode;
  • Drivers are not permitted to hold or support any electronic device/phone;
  • Activation of GPS, voice to text, and making or receiving calls is permitted with one-touch or voice command;
  • Handheld use is allowed only if the vehicle is both stationary and not located in a public travel lane, or an emergency;
  • Drivers are not allowed to touch a device for texting, emailing, apps, video, or internet use;
  • Should a driver receive two distracted driving violations in three years, the new law states insurance companies can consider those violations when establishing insurance rates for a driver.

What Drivers Can Do:

  • If you are expecting a text message or need to send one, pull over and park your car in a safe location. Once you are safely off the road and parked, it is safe to text;
  • Designate your passenger as your "designated texter." Allow them access to your phone to respond to calls or messages;
  • Activate your phone's "Do Not Disturb" feature, or put your cell phone in the trunk, glove box, or back seat of your vehicle until you arrive at your destination if you are struggling not to use your device while driving.

Penalty for Violating the Hands-Free Law:

  • 1st offense - $75 fine, with court costs = $131.50.
  • 2nd offense within three years - $150 fine, with court costs = $206.50.
  • 3rd and subsequent offenses within three years - $300 fine, with court costs = $356.50.
  • Three offenses in three years can also lead to a license suspension of up to 90 days.

Contact: Boise Police Media Relations

BPDMedialine@cityofboise.org

© 2024 City of Boise. All rights reserved.

Message Sent Successfully!

Message Failed To Send.

Send a Message to Boise Police Media Relations