Every time a driver picks up their phone on I-65 or a busy street in Fort Wayne, they're making a choice that risks lives. This April, during Distracted Driving Awareness Month, Indiana law enforcement is making sure that choice has consequences.
The 2026 Indiana Safer Roads Campaign is a statewide, high-visibility enforcement effort involving the Indiana State Police and local agencies. Backed by the Indiana Criminal Justice Institute (ICJI), officers are working overtime this month to pull over drivers who violate the state’s strict Hands-Free Law. At Glaser & Ebbs, we support these efforts because we see the shattering reality of preventable moments every single day.
Indiana’s Hands-Free Law: No Excuses in 2026
Indiana's Hands-Free Law is absolute. It isn't just a suggestion, it's a mandate to keep eyes on the road and hands on the wheel. In 2026, the law is clear:
- Zero Physical Contact: It is illegal to hold a mobile device in your hand for any reason while operating a vehicle, even while stopped at a red light.
- Bluetooth Only: Calls must be made using hands-free technology such as Bluetooth or a headset.
- Primary Offense: Officers do not need another reason to pull you over. If they see a phone in your hand, you will be stopped.
For our clients, a citation issued during this April campaign is more than just a ticket. It's documented proof of negligence. When we can show the other driver violated Indiana law, it becomes much harder for insurance companies to deny liability for your injuries.
The Hidden Data of Distracted Driving
Nationally, distraction leads to over 3,000 deaths annually, but the true numbers in Indiana are likely much higher. Distraction is often the hidden cause of crashes labeled as "lane departures" or "failures to yield." Drivers rarely admit to texting at the scene, and police reports don't always capture the digital truth.
That’s where the attorneys at Glaser & Ebbs step in. We dig deeper than the initial report, using subpoenas and digital forensics to uncover evidence that doesn't show up in government statistics. We match cell phone activity to the exact second of impact to prove why the crash actually happened.
What to Do if a Distracted Driver Hurts You
If you were injured in a crash where distraction or speeding played a role, the steps you take in the first hour can determine your ability to get justice later. You don't need to be a legal expert at the scene. You just need to document what happened while it's fresh. Here's what to do:
- Prioritize Your Health: Seek medical care right away, even if you feel "fine." Adrenaline often masks internal injuries or a TBI. Having a medical record from the day of the crash is the only way to link your injuries directly to the accident.
- Look for Clues of Distraction: If it’s safe, look at the other driver's vehicle. Did they have a phone mounted? Was there food or a device on the floorboard? If you saw them looking down before impact, tell the responding officer immediately so it's included in the official report.
- Identify Witnesses: Police don't always interview everyone. If a bystander says they saw the other driver texting, get their name and phone number. Their testimony can be the missing link we need to prove fault.
- Don't Give a Recorded Statement: The other driver’s insurance company may call you quickly to "get your side of the story." These calls are often designed to get you to admit fault or downplay your injuries. Tell them to speak with your attorney.
FAQs About Indiana Distracted Driving Laws
Is it illegal to use a phone at a red light in Indiana?
Yes. Indiana's Hands-Free Law prohibits holding a mobile device while "operating" a motor vehicle. This includes time spent stopped at intersections or in traffic. If you are on the road, the phone must stay out of your hand.
What is the fine for a distracted driving ticket in Indiana?
A violation is a Class C infraction, which can carry a fine of up to $500. More importantly for your case, a citation can add 4 points to the driver's license and serves as evidence of negligence in a civil lawsuit.
Can I use my phone if it’s mounted to the dashboard?
Yes, as long as you are not holding the device. You may use a mounted phone for navigation or hands-free calls, but you should still limit interactions to avoid "cognitive distraction."
How do I prove the other driver was distracted if they weren't ticketed?
We don't just rely on the police. Our attorneys can subpoena cell phone records and data logs from the other driver's carrier to prove they were texting, scrolling, or using an app at the moment of impact.
What if I was a passenger in the distracted driver's car?
You have the same right to seek compensation for your injuries. As a passenger, you are almost never at fault for a crash, and the driver's insurance is there to cover your medical bills and lost wages.
Glaser and Ebbs Is Ready to Fight for You
The Indiana car accident lawyers at Glaser & Ebbs have built this firm around the commitment of fighting for Indiana injury victims with the full force of our legal knowledge and more than a century of combined experience. We know what insurance companies are trying to do when they offer low settlements quickly, and we know how to push back.
Our job is to get you justice and full compensation, not what the insurance company thinks your claim is worth. We mean every word of that promise. To learn how we can help you, contact us today for a free consultation. You deserve an attorney who will fight as hard for your recovery as you're already fighting every day.
“When my wife had an accident, she went to this firm within the week. They helped immediately, which secured evidence that helped win the case. The lawyer we had is one of the partners. They took a personal close interest in my wife and her welfare throughout the process. We would use this firm again.” - M.H., ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐