More Than 1900 Hands-Free Citations Issued Statewide by Alabama Troopers
By Rick McCann
Blue RAM Media/Gulf Coast News
June 21, 2025
MONTGOMERY, Ala. Many states nationwide, including Alabama, have enacted laws that restrict drivers from talking or texting on phones while driving.
Some studies have shown that distracted drivers, including those on their phones, are responsible for more accidents than drunk drivers.
Alabama’s hands-free driving law, which passed the state Legislature in 2023 may be strengthened further to make roads safer.
The law enacted a ban on the use of mobile devices while driving as part of an effort to make Alabama’s roads safer.
Some people say that they weren’t aware of the law or that there hasn’t been enough education on the law or the dangers involved in driving while talking on the phone while others say that there’s not enough signage on state roads.
In the last year, Alabama state troopers have issued 1,900 citations statewide. Capt. Jeremy Burkett with the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency says the goal is not to give tickets but to save lives.
“It’s not that we’re trying to go out and give anybody a bunch of tickets or write a bunch of tickets. That’s not what it’s about. We’re out there trying to educate people,” said Burkett.
Michelle Lunsford, who lost her daughter Camryn Callaway seven years ago, says it’s heartbreaking for her and her family to have to go through something like that.
“She was my one and only child. And I sure do miss her,” Lunsford said.
Camryn, distracted by her phone, ran under the back side of an 18-wheeler.
Lunsford now speaks to school and church groups about the consequences of distracted driving.
“The consequence to that may be devastating to you, to a passenger or to the people around you, you know, are you willing to take that chance? Please be aware of what you’re doing when you’re driving,” said Lunsford.
Motivated by her loss, she helped push for the hands-free law.
For a first offense, the fine is $50 and one point is added. A second offense within 24 months carries a $100 fine and two points, while subsequent offenses within the same time frame result in a $150 fine and three points.
In Florida, using a handheld cell phone while driving is prohibited, requiring hands-free devices for any sustained wireless communication. First-time offenders face a non-moving violation with a $30 base fine, which can increase to around $108 with court costs. Second offenses within five years result in a moving violation with a $60 fine, plus court fees and three points on the driver’s license. In school and work zones, violations are considered moving violations from the start, incurring a $60 fine and three points.
Oregon has the strictest hands-free law in the country, fining distracted drivers up to $1,000. Oregon’s laws and harsh penalties are having an impact, preventing over 5,000 crashes, 2,880 injuries, 23 fatalities, and over $200M in economic damage in 2023.
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