Texting while driving laws have taken into account the increase of accidents, due to this problem. Laws that have been enacted in California this past year require the use of hand-held devices and prohibit texting or even dialing a number while using a motor vehicle.  

Drivers under the age of 18 are not allowed to use any electronic device while driving. For example cell phones, laptops, and pagers are banned. The only exception to this rule is in case of an emergency. The laws are stricter for teens because studies show they can get distracted much easier than adults. If caught while using a hands-free device you will receive a secondary violation.

The first offense will come with a $20 fine and no violation points will be added to driver’s DMV record, but these violations will appear on the driving record. These laws do not apply to the passengers in the vehicle; they only apply to the driver.

At San Benito High School students were asked if they were aware of the texting while driving laws in California. Most said they were unaware of the texting while driving laws. They were asked if the laws have changed their habits. Responses were “no even though I’m aware it hasn’t made a difference.