The Governor’s Office of Highway Safety says Arizona drivers are adjusting well to the state’s new distracted driving laws. But, a study conducted by the office last November shows that some drivers are having difficulty putting down their cellphones.

The study released April 15 shows about 90% of observed drivers not on their phones at all and about 9.5% using their phone. About half of distracted drivers were under 25.

Fourteen percent of observed drivers in Pinal County, 13% in Pima County and 8% in Maricopa County were caught using their phone behind the wheel.

Office of Highway Safety Director Alberto Gutier says upcoming public service announcements from the state are set to target distracted driving.

“Even though the law is very clear, no one should have a phone in their hands, they’re still using it. That’s the group we’re trying to reach by putting out how dangerous it is,” said Gutier.

Gutier says that some areas in southern Arizona, including Pima County, had similar ordinances in place before the statewide law went into effect at the end of 2020. 

Drivers using a cellphone or other device not in hands-free mode can receive a fine between $75 and $250.