Dozens of new laws take effect today as Connecticut cracks down on distracted driving
One law bans drivers from holding, touching or resting a phone on their body in any way while driving.
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Drivers in Connecticut will now face tougher penalties for distracted driving and other vehicle violations.
The new laws passed by the state Legislature take effect Thursday.
One law bans drivers from holding, touching or resting a phone on their body in any way while driving. That includes when the phone is on speakerphone or when drivers are stopped at a red light or stop sign. Drivers must use hands-free options instead.
Watching videos, streaming content or scrolling through social media on a phone or built-in dashboard screen will also be banned.
A first offense carries a $200 fine, while a second offense carries a $375 fine. Any subsequent offense carries a $625 fine. There are exceptions for calling in an emergency.
Distracted driving in a highway work zone will now be considered reckless driving. Anyone caught doing so could potentially face up to 30 days in jail for a first offense.
Other laws taking effect include increased fines for drivers who pass stopped school buses or tractor-trailers on state highways during a snowstorm.
Additionally, anyone who passes a stopped school bus three times will have their license suspended. Tractor-trailers driving on state highways during a blizzard will also face a fine of up to $250.
These new laws align with similar laws in New York, where drivers are banned from holding, touching or using any hand-held mobile phone while driving.
Officials say more than 90 laws are taking effect in the state today and cover a wide range of issues, including employment, privacy, public safety and healthcare. For the full list of all Connecticut's new laws, click here.
