Are Apple Watches Considered “Hands-Free”?

As technology evolves, so do the challenges of staying safe on the road. Smartphones were once the primary target of distracted driving laws, but today devices like the Apple Watch blur the line between convenience and distraction. The Apple Watch and other wearable smart devices allow drivers to send and receive messages, calls, and access notifications without ever picking up a phone. But does that mean it qualifies as “hands-free” under the law? Across the United States, distracted driving statutes are broad and often apply to any activity that diverts drivers attention away from the road. This leaves many drivers wondering if using an Apple Watch behind the wheel is just as risky and illegal as picking up their phone.

Understanding “Hands-Free” Distracted Driving Laws

Nearly all states within the U.S. have implemented some sort of distracted driving law. However, distracted driving laws are unique to each state with some explicitly banning handheld cellphone use all-together and some only banning texting while driving. When a state implements a “Hands-Free” distracted driving law, drivers are typically allowed to interact with their smart devices through voice activation or when their device is affixed to their car. Many of these laws were written before the prevalence of wearable technology. Hands-free laws were primarily targeting phones but may apply more broadly, including Apple Watches.

Safety Risks Beyond Legal Statutes

While most states promote hands-free use, that doesn’t mean using this technology is risk-free. According to the NHTSA, 3,275 people lost their lives from distracted driving. Many of these deaths include drivers who were using their devices in a “legal” manner under their location’s restrictions. Drivers must remain attentive while behind the wheel, especially when smart wearables make it more convenient to access functions that take attention away from driving.  For those who have been injured in a crash caused by a distracted driver, speaking with an attorney experienced in handling car accident claims can be crucial in understanding your rights and pursuing compensation.

Apple Watch Features Behind The Wheel

In many ways, smart wearables like the Apple Watch function identically as a phone. Texting, calling, navigation, and notifications can all be accessed without physically holding a phone. While the device is worn on the wrist, users often need to look down, swipe, or tap to interact with the watch. These interactions take drivers’ eyes off the road or hands off the wheel, which is the essence of distracted driving.

States With Broad Distracted Driving Laws Indirectly Prohibit Smart Wearable Usage

Many states have adopted laws that go beyond simply restricting phone calls or text messages. Instead, they prohibit any activity that prevents a driver from giving full attention to the road, regardless of the device or object involved. Under these broader statutes, interacting with a smart watch may fall under the same category of distracted driving as texting on a phone or making a phone call. While the language of these bills may not explicitly prohibit Apple Watch and smart wearable usage, they are designed to give officers discretion to issue citations when a driver’s behavior compromises safety.

Texas, for example, issues a statewide ban on texting while driving. However, its distracted driving laws allow police officers to cite drivers for any behavior that interferes with the safe operation of a vehicle. If a driver glances down to view a text message on their Apple Watch, law enforcement may reasonably assume that the driver is distracted and issue a citation under this rule.

Driving Safely In The Age of Smart Devices

There’s no denying that smart watches have offered a convenient way for drivers to stay connected at a glance. Despite this, they occupy a gray area under many state’s distracted driving laws. That doesn’t mean using them is legal nor safe, many distracted driving statutes across the U.S. are broad enough where usage can lead to tickets-or worse, accidents. Drivers should consider silencing notifications or activating safe driving features on their devices when operating their vehicle to reduce distractions.

Remember, just because it’s on your wrist doesn’t mean it’s “hands-free” under the law.