LANSING (WWJ) – Traffic deaths are climbing across the U.S., including here in Michigan.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration recently released data that shows more than 43,000 people died on American roads in 2021 — and a large contributor is distracted driving.
As more people are seemingly using their phones behind the wheel, Michigan lawmakers are taking aim at the issue.
"It's a major problem," Rep. Matt Koleszar of Plymouth told WWJ, noting about 3,000 people a year die in the U.S. due to distracted driving.
The State House Transportation, Mobility and Infrastructure Committee will hear testimony this week for proposed changes to current driving laws in Michigan.
Koleszar is one of the sponsors of the legislation seeking to change Michigan's current distracted driving law, which he says currently only targets texting.
"Right now, you are not allowed to text and drive, but there is nothing on the books about using a cell phone while driving," he said live on WWJ Sunday morning. "What my bill does, it says that you are not allowed to use social media while driving, you are not allowed to use video streaming services while driving."
But the bill does include a hands-free exception, according to Koleszar. For example, many cars now come equipped with features like Apple CarPlay, which allows drivers to send and receive messages, change music and more, without touching a phone.
Koleszar says Michigan is behind other states when it comes to distracted driving laws.
"Currently there are 25 states that have distracted driving laws on the books, that just ban distracted driving," he said.
The proposed legislation would make Michigan the 26th.
More information on House Bill 4250 can be found on the state legislature's website.
