(COLORADO) — In an attempt to reduce distracted driving, a new law in Colorado will prohibit the use of any phones while driving starting in 2025. Beginning Wednesday, Jan. 1, phones will be banned from being used while driving unless a person is using a hands-free accessory. The Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) plans to push the law over the next several months leading to January to ensure all Coloradans are aware of the law. “This new legislation is a crucial step toward making Colorado’s roads safer for everyone,” said Shoshana Lew, executive director of CDOT.  “By encouraging drivers to focus solely on the task of driving, we can reduce the number of distracted driving incidents and prevent crashes that often come with such behavior. This law aligns with best practices from across the nation and reflects our commitment to protecting all road users, whether in a vehicle, on a bike, or walking.” When the law goes into effect, Colorado will join California, Iowa, Georgia, and 27 other states that have already adopted a law that bans using hand-held devices while driving. CDOT's 2024 Driver Behavior Report showed that 77% of Colorado drivers admitted to using their phones while driving, with 45% saying a hands-free feature in their car would stop them from using their phones. Studies show that using a cell phone while driving increases the risk of a crash by two to six times. States with similar laws reported a decrease in distracted driving crashes. Michigan implemented the law in 2023 and within the first year, there was a 12.8% decrease in distracted driving crashes. "For a long time, troopers have been able to detect when someone is driving distracted by a vehicle weaving between lanes, delayed starts at stop signs and lights, not to mention seeing a phone or other device in a driver's hand," said Col. Matthew Packard, chief of the Colorado State Patrol. "This legislation allows us to address risky and careless behaviors in a proactive way to increase the safety of all roadway users." Penalties for violating the new law will start at $75 and two license suspension points for the first offense. First-time violators can have the charge dismissed if they provide proof of purchasing a hands-free accessory. CDOT urges all drivers to prepare for when the law takes effect and begin putting their phones down.