📵 Michigan Teen Drivers and Cell Phones: What the Law Really Says
📜 What Is Kelsey’s Law?
Kelsey’s Law prohibits drivers under Michigan’s Level 1 and Level 2 graduated license system from using a cellphone while driving. This includes texting, calling, using apps, or entering GPS directions, unless it’s a true emergency. The law is named after Kelsey Raffaele, a Michigan teen who tragically died in a phone-related crash.
Violations are civil infractions and can result in a $100 fine and potential license restrictions, like extending the probation period. No points are added to the driver’s record, but police can stop a teen driver solely for phone use.
📅 What Changed in 2023? Michigan’s New Hands-Free Law
As of June 30, 2023, Michigan expanded its distracted driving laws to apply to all drivers. It’s now illegal to:
- Hold a phone while driving, even for navigation
- Text, scroll, or make calls without hands-free tech
- Use social media, stream videos, or take photos
For teens under Level 1 or 2 licenses, these new laws reinforce Kelsey’s Law, making even hands-free use off-limits in most cases.
⚖️ Penalties for Teen Drivers Using Phones
- First Offense: $100 fine or up to 16 hours community service
- Second Offense: $250 fine or 24 hours service, plus 1 point on license
- Three Offenses in 3 Years: Mandatory driver improvement course
- If Crash Occurs: Fines may double under new rules
While Kelsey’s Law doesn’t add points, the newer hands-free legislation does, so teen drivers may face dual consequences.
📊 Why It Matters: Teen Driving Risks
- Motor vehicle crashes are the leading cause of death for U.S. teens
- Texting makes a crash 23x more likely (Virginia Tech Study)
- 41% of fatal teen crashes in Michigan occur at night
- Crash risk jumps 158% with two passengers and 207% with three
🛑 Exceptions for Teen Phone Use
- Calling 911 to report a traffic accident
- Medical emergencies or road hazards
- Criminal activity or personal safety threats
🧑🤝🧑 What Parents Should Do
- Talk to your teen about the risks of distracted driving
- Use a written driving contract and set family expectations
- Consider monitoring apps or telematics programs
For a full breakdown of passenger limits, curfews, and GDL levels, check out our guide:
🚘 Michigan Teen Graduated License: What Parents Should Know
💡 Save on Michigan Teen Auto Insurance
- Good Student Discount
- Driver Safety Training Programs
- Accident-Free History
Ask us about programs to help you lower the cost of insuring your new teen driver.