California bans motorists from text-messaging while driving
Photo by Jacob Belcher/Wicked Local
Yesterday, Gov. Arnold Schwarzengger signed a law that bans motorists from text-messaging and e-mailing while operating a vehicle. Starting January 1, drivers who will get caught writing or reading messages on their mobile phones will get a $20 ticket the first time and $50 on each subsequent offense.
Schwarzenegger said: “Building on legislation already helping save lives in California, I am happy to sign this bill because it further encourages safe and responsible driving [..] Banning electronic text-messaging while driving will keep drivers’ hands on the wheel and their eyes on the road, making our roadways a safer place for all Californians.”
This comes after two other laws regarding the use of mobile phones while driving took effect July 1. One required drivers to use hands-free devices while talking on their phones, while the other one prohibited drivers under 18 years old from operating mobile phones.
Source: Mercury News
Post tags: Tags: arnold schwarzenegger, california, driving, text message
It’s a good thing – young drivers are especially at risk from texting whilst driving; too many lives have already been lost to be complacent about the problem.