To Talk or Not to Talk?No Question for California Spring 2008 Issue
Effective July 1, 2008, California joins a handful of other states with its new law prohibiting the use of hand-held mobile phones while driving.
Violators will be fined $20 for the first offense and $50 for each subsequent offense. Exceptions will be made for 911 calls, and truck drivers will be permitted to use hand-held devices until 2011.
There is a great deal of controversy surrounding this issue, but the simple fact remains that driving requires concentration, and talking on the phone distracts drivers. However, many argue that it's actually conversation that distracts drivers, not the use of phones. Consequently, other forms of distraction, such as eating, listening to music and talking to passengers are now being named as the next targets of state-wide driving legislation.
One state lawmaker even wants to ban motorists from driving with their dogs on their laps, as such may negatively impact a driver's control of the automobile and ability to focus on traffic.
We are seeing an alarming increase in the number of auto accidents involving drivers who use their cell phones in traffic. You will soon notice advertisements for the types of hands-free devices approved for use by the state of California.