SB 479

Current law prohibits inattentive driving of a motor vehicle, which includes:

1) being so engaged or occupied, while driving a motor vehicle, as to interfere with

the safe driving of the vehicle; 2) driving a motor vehicle while composing or sending

an electronic text message or an e-mail message, subject to various exceptions; and

3) a probationary license or instructional permit holder driving a motor vehicle while

using a cellular or other wireless telephone. Any person convicted of the first two

forms of inattentive driving may be required to forfeit not less than $20 nor more

than $400 and any person convicted of the third form of inattentive driving may be

required to forfeit not less than $20 nor more than $40 for a first offense and not less

than $50 nor more than $100 for a second or subsequent offense within a year.

This bill prohibits a person from driving a motor vehicle while using a cellular

or other wireless telephone in a construction zone, unless the person uses the

telephone without the use of his or her hands. The prohibition includes using the

telephone for a purpose other than communication. Persons who violate this

prohibition may be required to forfeit not less than $20 nor more than $40 for a first

offense, and not less than $50 nor more than $100 for a second or subsequent offense

within one year.