California Bans Text Messaging While Driving

Starting January 1, drivers in California will not be able to send, write, or read messages on electronic devices while they are behind the wheel. On Wednesday, Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger signed legislation that imposes a $20 fine for the first offense of texting while driving and $50 for subsequent violations.

Schwarzenegger said of the legislation, "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."

After the September 12 collision between a Metrolink passenger train and a freight train, the California Public Utilities Commission recently banned certain railroad workers from using text-messaging devices or cell phones on moving trains. Investigators are examining whether or not texting by an engineer was a factor in the crash, which killed 25 people and injured 135.

The texting ban was backed by insurers, bicyclists, and cell phone companies. They also supported a ban on using handheld cell phones while driving, which took effect on July 1. Drivers are only allowed to use cell phones in conjunction with hands-free devices such as headsets. Another law makes it illegal for drivers under the age of 18 to use any kind of cell phone.

"When somebody's distracted, it puts not just the driver at risk but everybody else in the car and everybody else on the highway," said Sen. Joe Simitian (D- Palo Alto).

Tom Marshall, spokesman for the California Highway Patrol, said that state officers have issued 19,753 citations to drivers who were talking on handheld cell phones since July 1.

"Why everybody isn't hands-free now, I have no idea," he said.

Source: "Schwarzenegger outlaws text-messaging while driving." Los Angeles Times. September 25, 2008.