AAA Missouri Urges Drivers to Stay Focused During Distracted Driving Awareness Month

Park Hills, Mo. (KFMO) - April is National Distracted Driving Awareness Month, and AAA Missouri is calling attention to the dangers of driving while distracted.

A new analysis from AAA Missouri shows distraction was a factor in approximately one out of every ten fatal crashes in the state between 2014 and 2024. In that time, 1,058 people lost their lives on Missouri roadways due to distracted driving-related incidents.

Missouri drivers are also being reminded of the state’s Siddens Bening Hands-Free Law, which took effect after being signed into law in August 2023.

Missouri State Highway Patrol Sergeant Dallas Thompson says the law strictly limits how drivers can use their phones behind the wheel.

Under the law, drivers are prohibited from typing, scrolling, holding, or otherwise supporting a mobile device while operating a vehicle, with only a few exceptions. It also bans watching videos, recording footage, or posting content while driving, even if the phone is mounted.

However, the law does allow drivers to use hands-free technology. This includes making or receiving phone calls through Bluetooth or similar systems, as well as using navigation and audio applications, so long as the device is not physically handled.

Penalties for violating the Siddens Bening Hands-Free Law can include fines of up to $150 for a first offense. More serious consequences can follow if a violation contributes to a crash, including potential prison time of up to seven years in cases involving a fatality.

AAA Missouri and law enforcement officials encourage all drivers to put their phones down and focus solely on the road to help prevent further tragedies.