Colorado drivers could get a fine for being on their phone while driving if proposed bill passes

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. (KRDO)- As we all live life in the fast lane these days, the notifications on our smartphones seem to be endless and that can be tough, especially when you are driving around town.

It's one of the many issues leading to Colorado having some of the deadliest roads in the country. Some El Paso County drivers we spoke to Tuesday said they are all too familiar with seeing distracted drivers.

"While you're driving, you have to understand you're operating a large machine and if you're distracted, that could have some really bad consequences," said Rachel Phillips, Colorado Springs Resident.

Under current Colorado law, teens are not allowed to be on their phones under any circumstances. For adults, the line gets a little blurred.

Adults can't text and drive but they can take calls. This new bill would only allow hands-free calling when on the road.

"There's really nothing law enforcement can do right now unless you have some other infraction, like you're swerving or you're driving erratically, and then they pull you over and you could get a secondary infraction for texting and driving, but it's not a primary offense," said Sen. Chris Hansen.

Those caught violating the proposed law for the first time could get the $75 fine waived if they prove they bought a hands-free device. But, a second offense within 2-years will cost a whopping  $150 and a  3-point hit for your license, according to the proposed bill. For a third or subsequent offense within 24 months, $250 fine and 4 license suspension points.

For some drivers in Colorado Springs that sounds pretty good.

"If you do have a consequence, it'll definitely be a deterrent to stop texting and driving," said Phillips.

The bill passed unanimously out of the Senate Transportation and Energy Committee. It heads to the Senate Appropriations Committee before going back before the full Senate.