Navigating the Indiana No-Hands Law

In an era dominated by digital connectivity, it’s second nature to reach for a smartphone while driving—whether to answer a call, check GPS, or respond to a message. But in Indiana, that impulse can now lead to legal trouble. The Indiana no-hands law, enacted in July 2020, fundamentally changed how Hoosiers interact with their mobile devices behind the wheel. 

This law is more than a formality—it’s a critical measure aimed at reducing distracted driving, a behavior responsible for thousands of crashes and injuries each year. Whether you’re a daily commuter, a commercial driver, or a parent transporting your kids to school, understanding the no touch law in Indiana is essential to staying safe and legal on Hoosier roadways. 

If you have been ticketed for breaking the Indiana no-hands law and are concerned about the accumulation of points on your Indiana driver’s license, the traffic ticket attorneys at Keffer Hirschauer LLP are available to assist you. We have a thorough understanding of how the BMV system works, and the steps you need to take to protect your driving privileges. Contact us today at 317-648-9560 or complete our online contact form to schedule a confidential consultation. Our team can review the circumstances of your suspension, and help you get you back behind the wheel. 

The Background and Purpose of Indiana’s Hands-Free Law 

The Indiana no-hands law was born from a growing concern over distracted driving and the limitations of previous legislation. Prior to 2020, Indiana banned texting while driving, but enforcement proved difficult. Law enforcement officers often had no way of distinguishing texting from other, permissible phone use—such as dialing a number—making it nearly impossible to issue citations that would hold up in court. 

Recognizing this enforcement gap and the rising number of distraction-related crashes, Indiana lawmakers enacted Indiana Code 9-21-8-59, effective July 1, 2020. This comprehensive law prohibits the use of handheld electronic communication devices while operating a moving motor vehicle. 

The law’s primary goal is to improve road safety. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), distracted driving claimed over 3,100 lives nationwide in 2020 alone. In Indiana, the Department of Transportation emphasized that drivers using a phone are up to six times more likely to cause a crash. By restricting device use to hands-free methods only, the state aims to reduce these risks and create safer travel conditions for everyone. 

In support of this initiative, the Indiana State Police, Department of Transportation, and other agencies launched a public awareness campaign to educate motorists. The campaign stressed not just legal compliance, but a shift in driving culture—encouraging Hoosiers to stay focused and keep their hands on the wheel and eyes on the road. 

What the No-Hand Law in Indiana Prohibits 

Under the Indiana hands-free law, it is unlawful for any individual to hold or use a telecommunications device while operating a moving motor vehicle on Indiana roads. This provision applies broadly to any use of a mobile device that requires holding it in your hand, including but not limited to texting, emailing, scrolling through apps, or dialing phone numbers. 

The statutory language is clear: a driver may not hold a phone or electronic device in their hand while the vehicle is in motion. However, there are important exceptions to this rule: 

• Hands-Free Use Permitted: Drivers may use mobile devices if they are connected to the vehicle via Bluetooth or mounted in a dashboard cradle, allowing for voice-activated commands or one-touch activation. 
• Emergency Situations: The law makes an exception for calls made to 911 or other emergency services during urgent circumstances. 
• Stopped Vehicles: The restriction applies only to vehicles in motion. While not recommended, using a device while legally parked or fully stopped outside the flow of traffic is not prohibited. 

It is also important to note what the no touch law in Indiana does not permit. Drivers may not bypass this rule by briefly holding the device, such as to check a notification or skip a song. These actions still constitute a violation if the device is held while the vehicle is moving. 

From an enforcement perspective, the law was designed to aid police officers in identifying and stopping violations. However, it also includes protective language for drivers: officers may not confiscate or search a device without a warrant or the driver’s consent, ensuring compliance with constitutional privacy rights. 

For Indiana drivers, the safest and most compliant approach is to prepare before driving—set your destination in your GPS, enable “Do Not Disturb” modes, and keep devices out of reach to avoid temptation. 

Penalties & Enforcement 

Violating the Indiana no-hands law carries real legal and financial consequences. While the law was introduced with a grace period and an initial focus on public education, enforcement efforts have significantly increased in recent years—highlighting the state’s commitment to curbing distracted driving. 

Initial Penalties 

Under Indiana Code 9-21-8-59, a violation constitutes a Class C infraction. This can result in: 

• Fines of up to $500 per offense 
• Court costs and fees that may increase the total financial burden 

When the law first took effect on July 1, 2020, law enforcement officers were instructed to issue warnings to educate drivers. However, starting July 1, 2021, the Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles began assigning four points to an Indiana driver’s license for violations. These points can accumulate and potentially lead to a suspension of driving privileges, especially if combined with other Indiana traffic violations.  

Enhanced Enforcement and Trends 

In 2024, Indiana law enforcement issued 18,887 citations for hands-free law violations—a substantial increase that demonstrates the state’s growing enforcement efforts. This uptick follows several high-profile traffic accidents and rising public concern over roadway safety. 

Despite the law’s intent, highway fatality rates have increased, with 949 deaths reported in 2022, up from 897 in 2020. This underscores a broader challenge: while legislation can deter behavior, achieving safer roads also requires consistent enforcement and cultural change among drivers. 

Real-World Impact 

For drivers, a hands-free violation may appear minor, but its consequences can snowball. Beyond fines and license points, such infractions can affect auto insurance premiums; contribute to liability in civil litigation, especially if the violation is linked to a traffic accident; undermine professional driving credentials, particularly for commercial vehicle operators.  

Ultimately, compliance isn’t just about avoiding penalties—it’s about protecting yourself, your passengers, and everyone else on Indiana’s roads. 

How Keffer Hirschauer LLP Can Help You Navigate the Indiana No Hands Law

Understanding and following the Indiana no-hands law is crucial—not just for compliance, but for protecting your legal interests in the event of an accident. If you’re involved in a crash and suspected of using a handheld device, the consequences can extend far beyond a traffic ticket in Indiana. 

Civil and Criminal Implications 

Violating the hands-free statute could be used as evidence of negligence in a civil lawsuit. If you were holding your phone at the time of a collision, you could face: 

• Increased liability in personal injury claims 
• Higher insurance payouts 
• Potential criminal charges in cases involving serious injury or death 

Conversely, if you are the victim of a distracted driver, proving that the other party was unlawfully using their phone can significantly strengthen your claim for damages. In either scenario, legal representation is critical. 

How Our Attorneys Can Assist 

The experienced Indiana traffic attorneys at Keffer Hirschauer LLP are well-versed in Indiana traffic and injury law. Whether you’re defending against a citation or pursuing compensation after an accident, we can: 

• Investigate and document potential phone usage 
• Challenge improperly issued citations 
• Represent you in negotiations or litigation 
• Help mitigate penalties and protect your driving privileges 

Our team includes former prosecutors and seasoned trial lawyers who understand both sides of the courtroom. We work diligently to build a compelling case and safeguard your rights. 

Take the Next Step: Don’t let a momentary distraction turn into a long-term legal problem. Whether you’ve been cited under the Indiana no-hands law or injured by someone who was distracted behind the wheel, our firm is here to help. Contact us today at 317-648-9560 or complete our online contact form to schedule a confidential consultation.