Don’t
Take That Cell Phone Call |
By Jorge Casuso
July 1 – If you’re driving, don’t pick
up that cell phone or you could face at least a $20 fine under a
California law that went into effect Tuesday.
Santa Monica police said they would be looking out for drivers who ignore the
law that bans the use of hand-held cell phones, but allows drivers to use headsets,
speakers or other hands-free devices.
“We’ll be out aggressively enforcing it,” said Sgt. Renaldi
Thurston, the Police Department spokesman. “We plan to take an active
and aggressive approach.”
During a sting last week to nab drivers who violated crosswalk laws, police
warned those with cell phones that come today, they would face fines, Thurston
said.
While the threat of a $20 fine ($93 with court costs) -- and $50
for each subsequent violation ($201 with court costs) -- may not
deter the use of a hand-held cell phone, motorists who ignore the
new law and cause an accident could face huge civil judgments, and
even jail, if fatalities result.
Although those who violate the law during a fatal car accident may not face
a felony charge, using a hand-held cell phone could trigger a misdemeanor manslaughter
charge that can carry as much as to a year in jail for each death.
While California is joining a growing number of states that have banned or
restricted cell phone use while driving, it may not go far enough, some critics
charge.
Several studies suggest that the use of headsets, speakers or other hands-free
devices may be just as distracting as picking up a cell phone.
The new law bars drivers under 18 from using cell phones or any hands-free
devices.
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