A NEW law that came into force this week has changed the penalties drivers can expect for offences behind the wheel.
The revised rules have updated an existing law that was implemented in 2023 to eradicate a dangerous error.
GettyDrivers could face $500 under a new Missouri law[/caption]Back in August 2023, Missouri lawmakers brought in the Siddens Bening Hands Free Law, which changed the regulations around phone use while driving.
Under the rules, motorists are banned from holding a cell phone or touching a screen while “operating a vehicle”.
Previously, though, drivers in the state could only be issued warnings for improperly using a cell behind the wheel.
But now, for the first time, officials will be able to issue citations for the offence.
Anyone caught using their phone can face a $150 fine the first time they are caught.
This then increases to $250, going up to $500 for subsequent offences.
The price of the fine will go back down to $150 if its more than two years since your last offence.
The revised rules have now taken effect, with cops ordered to enforce it from January 1.
However, there is a loophole that could see drivers get away scot-free.
Cell phone use is still classified as a “secondary” citation even with the new penalties.
This means that cops cannot pull drivers over on suspicion of using a mobile device alone.
Instead, they can only enforce the regulations if they have already pulled a driver over for a “primary” offence.
These include more serious moving violations such as running a red light or speeding.
The fines for each offence will then be tallied up to work out the final penalty.
Using a phone can also be seen as an aggravating factor in other offences, such as dangerous driving.
It comes after another law brought in on the same day will see drivers fined $75 if they’re not careful when changing lanes.
Colorado authorities have introduced new rules governing the express lanes on the Central 70, I-25 and US 36 highways.
Fines were introduced for entering or exiting the express lane outside of designated zones.
Penalties will start at $75, jumping to $150 if not paid within 20 days.
This expands the regulations to all tolled express lanes in the state.
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