New California Cell Phone Driving Laws To Take Effect July 1st
It’s almost here. Starting July 1, drivers distracted by cell phones will be slapped with tickets that could cost them up to $200 if you add court costs and penalties. But money aside, these new laws will help weed out distracted drivers, who are either talking on the phone without a hands-free device or using the phone in a way it that affects their driving.
There are two laws that will go into effect July 1. The first prohibits all drivers from using a handheld wireless telephone while operating a motor vehicle. Drivers 18 and older may use a hands-free device. Drivers under the age of 18 may not use a wireless telephone or hands-free device while operating a motor vehicle.
There is no question that these new laws will help remove some of the dangers caused by distracted drivers on our roadways. According to the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration, 20 to 30 percent of auto accidents -- about 1.8 million -- in the United States are caused by driver distraction. These accidents result in 8,400 to 12,600 deaths, close to 1 million injuries and $40 billion in damages.
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