Alabamians could be fined for using a phone while driving starting June 15

MONTGOMERY, Ala. (WHNT) — Beginning on June 15, Alabamians could receive points on their driver’s license for using a phone while driving.

Dubbed the Hands-Free Law, drivers must be observed swerving and/or switching lanes without a blinker due to using a cell phone. Using a cell phone alone does not qualify as a violation.

Sergeant Jeremy Burkett with the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency said police can pull someone over if they seem to be driving distracted while using their phone.

“That’s the way the law describes it– the law describes it as an impaired manner,” Sgt. Burkett said. “So if an officer witnesses that violation, they can pull over and subsequently issue a citation beginning on June 15.”

Drivers could receive a $50 fine for the first violation, which increases by $50 for the second and third violations. Kevin Myrick, owner of the Insurance Center of Tuscaloosa, hopes the law will decrease accident rates.

“If this law has a bite like Gov. Ivey intends it to have, maybe it can start a trend in the future in the months and years going forward,” Myrick said. “To start slowing that trend down that we’re seeing in auto accidents.”

Sgt. Burkett said it’s about being able to react quickly on the road if something does happen.

“That’s one of the good things the law kind of targets. It allows you to keep both hands on the wheel, which is what we’re a proponent of,” Burkett said. “Because it allows you to have that defensive posture to be able to react quicker when something does happen.”

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WHNT.com.