Distracted driving is an important issue in Colorado and many other states. With the widespread use of smart phones and other electronic devices, the temptations to distraction are myriad. As readers may know, Colorado and most other states have passed some sort of ban on the use of cell phones while driving.
At present, Colorado prohibits all novice drivers from all cell phone use while driving, while adult drivers are only prohibited from texting. Drivers are not completely prohibited, however, from talking on their cell phone while they are driving. Hand held devices are permitted, though most drivers know that using a hand-held device to talk while driving is not safe.
Ironically, those Colorado drivers who use hands-free phone attachments in an attempt to be a bit safer behind the wheel can end up in trouble with the law. That’s because it is illegal in Colorado to drive with earphones. A new bill is being proposed, however, that would allow motorists to use one earphone while driving. The idea is to remove the penalty for drivers who are attempting to be safer, and to eventually move state law in the direction of supporting a bill that would require drivers to use hands-free devices.
Regardless of what the law says about what drivers may and may not do with regard to cell phones, motorists are always required to exercise reasonable care in the operation of their vehicle. Failure to do so can result in injury and death, for which victims have the right to compensation. Those who have been harmed by a distracted motorist owe it to themselves to work with an experienced attorney on their case.
Source: CBS Denver, “Bill Would Allow Coloradans To Use 1 Earphone Behind The Wheel,” March 5, 2015.
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