What Teens Need to Know About the Siddens Bening Hands-Free Law
If you’re a teen driver in Missouri, there’s a new rule you need to know before you hit the gas: the Siddens Bening Hands-Free Law. It’s all about keeping you and everyone else safe on the road by cutting out the distractions caused by cell phones. Here’s what it’s all about and how you can stay out of trouble…and avoid those hefty fines!
The Basics of the Hands-Free Law
As of August 28, 2023, Missouri drivers—especially new ones like you—are banned from holding or supporting a phone while driving. Missouri passed this law to prevent tragedies like those of Randall Siddens and Michael Bening, who both lost their lives due to distracted driving. Starting January 1, 2025, this law will be fully enforced, so now’s the time to get familiar with it.
Here’s what’s NOT allowed:
- Holding your phone to text, make a call, or scroll social media (even at a stoplight!)
- Recording or posting videos (yes, that includes TikTok)
- Watching movies or playing games on your phone while driving
But don’t worry – the law isn’t saying you can’t use your phone at all:
- Hands-free tools like Bluetooth, voice commands, and dashboard mounts are totally okay
- You can use your GPS, but set it up before you start driving
- Voice-to-text? That’s good too—just keep your hands off the phone
Distracted driving is no joke. In fact, it’s a leading cause of crashes among teens. Taking your eyes off the road for just five seconds (to read a text, for example) at 55 mph is like driving the length of a football field blindfolded. This law isn’t just about rules – it’s about keeping you and your friends safe.
For more information about the Siddens Bening Hands-Free Law, visit https://www.savemolives.com/mcrs/hands-free-law.
