Distracted Driving Laws in Colorado

1. What is the legal age to have a cell phone while driving in Colorado?


The legal age to have a cell phone while driving in Colorado is 18.

2. Does Colorado have a law prohibiting texting while driving?


Yes, Colorado has a law that prohibits texting while driving. It is illegal to use any type of electronic device while driving, including cell phones, tablets, and other handheld devices.

3. Is it illegal to use a handheld device while driving in Colorado?


Yes, it is illegal to use a handheld device while driving in Colorado. The law states that it is illegal to use any electronic device while driving, including talking on the phone, texting, and using a GPS. All of these activities are considered distracted driving and can result in a fine.

4. What are the fines for distracted driving in Colorado?


In Colorado, a first-time offense of distracted driving is a Class A traffic infraction and carries a fine of up to $300. Subsequent offenses carry a fine of up to $1,000.

5. Does Colorado allow hands-free talking on devices while driving?


Yes. Colorado law prohibits drivers from using any hand-held electronic device while driving, but it does allow for hands-free talking on devices while driving.

6. Does Colorado have a law prohibiting the use of social media while driving?


Yes. Colorado has a law prohibiting the use of handheld devices for electronic communications while driving. This includes the use of social media.

7. Is it illegal to talk on the phone while driving in Colorado?


Yes, it is illegal to talk on a cell phone while driving in Colorado, except for hands-free devices.

8. Is it illegal to make phone calls while stopped at a red light in Colorado?


No, it is not illegal to make phone calls while stopped at a red light in Colorado. However, it is strongly discouraged since distracted driving can be extremely dangerous.

9. Are there any state laws in Colorado requiring hands-free headsets for drivers?


Yes, Colorado requires all drivers to use hands-free headsets when talking on a cell phone while driving. All cell phone use is prohibited for drivers under 18 and for school bus drivers.

10. Does Colorado have a law prohibiting the use of cell phones while driving with a learner’s permit?


Yes, Colorado does have a law prohibiting the use of cell phones while driving with a learner’s permit. This law was passed in 2013 and applies to all drivers under the age of 18.

11. Is it legal to use GPS navigation systems while driving in Colorado?


Yes, it is legal to use GPS navigation systems while driving in Colorado.

12. Does Colorado have a law against any type of driver distraction?


Yes, Colorado has a law prohibiting any type of driver distraction, including text messaging and use of handheld devices.

13. Are there any restrictions on phone use in school zones in Colorado?


Yes. In Colorado, the Colorado Department of Transportation has implemented a statewide ban on cell phone use in school zones. Drivers are not allowed to use handheld devices in school zones when children are present and the speed limit is 25 mph or below. This includes texting, talking on the phone, and using social media apps.

14. Does Colorado have an administrative license suspension for distracted driving violations?


No, Colorado does not have an administrative license suspension for distracted driving violations.

15. Is it illegal to drive without a hands-free device in Colorado?


Yes, it is illegal to drive without a hands-free device in Colorado.

16. Does Colorado have an underage cellphone law which prohibits those under 18 from talking on their phones or texting while driving?


Yes, Colorado does have an underage cellphone law which prohibits those under 18 from talking on their phones or texting while driving. This law was passed as part of the Colorado Revised Statutes, Section 42-4-239. It is considered a secondary offense, meaning the driver must be pulled over for another offense in order to be cited for using a cellphone while driving.

17. Are there any restrictions on eating and drinking while driving in Colorado?


Yes, there are restrictions on eating and drinking while driving in Colorado. It is illegal to consume any type of alcoholic beverage or open container of an alcoholic beverage in the passenger area of a motor vehicle. Furthermore, the use of marijuana is illegal while operating a vehicle. Additionally, texting while driving is prohibited in the state.

18. What is the penalty for distracted driving violations in Colorado?


The penalty for a distracted driving violation in Colorado may vary depending on the specific violation. Generally, a distracted driving violation in Colorado can result in a fine of up to $300, 4 points on your license, and/or up to 90 days of jail time.

19. Are police officers allowed to pull over drivers for using their cell phones in Colorado?


Yes, police officers are allowed to pull over drivers for using their cell phones in Colorado. The Colorado Department of Transportation has enacted a “Drive with Care” law which prohibits drivers from using their cell phones while operating a vehicle unless they are using hands-free technology.

20. Does Colorado impose any restrictions on children under 18 using their cell phones in the car?


Yes. Colorado has a law that prohibits drivers under 18 from using a cell phone while driving, with exceptions made for emergency calls.