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Missouri's intensified focus on cellphone use while driving has drawn attention to the serious consequences of distracted driving. In 2023 alone, Missouri recorded at least 106 fatalities linked to distracted driving, with more than half involving victims other than the distracted driver. This stark statistic highlights the ripple effects of driving distractions, reaching beyond the lawbreakers to innocent road users.
Looking Ahead
As the enforcement of this law continues, officials emphasize that it is not solely about penalizing lawbreakers; it's about fostering a safer environment for all drivers and pedestrians. The state plans to introduce new fines starting January 1, 2025, in an effort to further deter cellphone use while driving.