Is Driving With One Hand Illegal in Michigan?

Get ready for a confusing answer to the question, "Is driving with one hand illegal in Michigan?" I wish it were as cut and dry as yes or no, but it seems like we're entering a bit of a gray area, thanks to the Mitten States distracted driving laws, which went into effect on June 30, 2023.

The new package of bills making up Michigan's updated law, while focused primarily on the use of electronics while driving, left many interpretations as to what constitutes distracted driving.

Is Driving with One Hand Distracted Driving in Michigan?

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According to 1800CallSam, Michigan's distracted driving laws don't explicitly ban driving with one hand, but if you're found at fault in an accident, one-handed driving can be a problem. Under the state's updated distracted driving law, you could be cited for "careless or negligent driving" if you're not fully in control, which can include behaviors like driving with only one hand on the steering wheel.

So, if your one-handed driving technique causes a fender bender, you could face fines and points on your license. But what if you don't have use of both hands? Can you legally drive a car in Michigan?

Can You Drive with a Sling in Michigan?

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Driving with an arm in a sling is allowed in Michigan, but (and you knew there was another 'but' coming) only if you can operate the vehicle safely, according to The Alpena News. Michigan's legal perspective focuses on "reasonable control" of your car, meaning if you're able to manage turns (including signals), and braking while in a sling, you're good to go.

But (that's three 'buts' if you're counting) if an accident happens and your sling is found to impact your ability to drive, you could be held liable. Michigan law may permit one-handed driving and sling use, but if either causes an accident, you could face distracted driving charges. When in doubt, use extra caution.

14 Violations That Are Considered Distracted Driving in Michigan

Michigan's new Distracted Driving, effective June 30, 2023, has added some new violations to the already existing list of no-nos behind the wheel. Here are 14 offenses that will get you a hefty fine and hours of community service, if you're caught doing them in your car.

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The 5 Deadliest Roads in the State of Michigan

MoneyGeek.com, using data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Safety Administration (NHTSA), Federal Highway Administration (FHA), and the Michigan State Police (MSP) to determine which of Michigan's transportation corridors experience the most fatal accidents. Here's a look at MoneyGeek's 5 Deadliest Roads in the State of Michigan.

Gallery Credit: Scott Clow

The Most Deadly 10 Miles of Road in Every State

If you've ever 'white-knuckled' your way through traffic, there's a good chance it happened in one of the United States' 50 worst traffic areas. WorldPopulationReview researched information from Car Insurance Comparison and Elk+Elk Lawfirm and determined which portion of the road had the most fatal crashes between 2000 and 2019. Here's a look at The Most Deadly 10 Miles of Road in Every State.

Gallery Credit: Scott Clow

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