Michigan to Restrict Phone Use by Some Teen Drivers

Teen drivers whose cell phone use contributes to a traffic crash or ticket may be prohibited from using a phone behind the wheel, under a probationary licensing restriction announced today by Michigan Secretary of State Terri Lynn Land.

"Most drivers understand the responsibility of getting behind the wheel and avoid risky distractions like cell phone use," Land said. "Unfortunately, not everyone gets the message. Many traffic mishaps involving inexperienced drivers also involve cell phones. Education and parental involvement remain the most effective means for impressing good driving skills upon teens. However, this optional licensing restriction is one more tool that reinforces the importance of safe, courteous driving."

The restriction may be imposed on teens when it is determined that cell phone use played a role in a negligent crash or a traffic violation. It applies to probationary drivers who are 14 years and 9 months old to age 19.

Teen drivers under probation who have tickets or crashes on their records face a re-examination, which could result in a license restriction, suspension or both. Such action would delay the teen's advancement in the Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) program. Re-examinations are personal reviews with the driver conducted by Department of State examiners.

All new drivers, including teens in GDL, are on probation for at least three years. The probationary period allows the department to monitor driving performance and impose any necessary licensing controls to promote safe driving habits.

During the last 10 months of probation, any tickets, at-fault crashes or license suspensions extend the probationary period until the teen completes 10 consecutive months of violation-free driving.

Young drivers with unsatisfactory records will continue to be under probation until they demonstrate safe skills, even if they no longer are in GDL.

Nearly 12,900 probationary drivers were scheduled for re-examination in 2007, though Land pointed out that number is a small percentage of Michigan's 7.1 million licensed drivers.