Law Alert: Michigan Drivers Can Be Fined for This at Red Lights

The next time you're sitting at a red light in Michigan, don't do this.

Of course, while sitting at a red light, you could be fined for several things, including rolling through the intersection before it turns green, blocking a crosswalk, or failing to yield to pedestrians. But there's one violation that catches a lot of drivers (myself included) off guard, because most people don't even realize it's against the law.

While most of us are aware when new laws go into effect, we don't always take the time to really dig in and understand the details. And that's exactly how you end up with people unknowingly breaking the law while just sitting at a red light.

Michigan Drivers Can Be Fined for This at Red Lights

I'm sure you're well aware that Michigan’s hands-free driving law kicked in back in June 2023, but did you know that also means you can't even hold your phone while stopped at a red light? Yep, even if you're not moving, it still counts as "operating a vehicle" under the law.

I'll be honest, I thought that once you came to a complete stop, it was totally fine to put your phone up to your ear and talk. It took me a while to get used to this when the law first went into effect. I hated talking on the phone without it right next to my ear...it just felt weird.

Obviously, unless there’s a cop around to see you, it’s probably not the end of the world. But it’s still against the law and definitely not a great habit to get into. All it takes is one glance from the wrong officer at the wrong time, and boom, there’s a ticket with your name on it.

Moral of the story? Keep your hands off the phone...even at a red light.