AB 198

Current law prohibits inattentive driving of a motor vehicle, which includes 1)

being engaged or occupied with an activity, other than driving the vehicle, that

interferes with the person's ability to drive the vehicle safely; 2) driving a motor

vehicle while composing or sending an electronic text message or an e-mail message,

subject to various exceptions; 3) a probationary license or instructional permit holder

driving a motor vehicle while using a cellular or other wireless telephone; and 4)

operating or being in a position to directly view an electronic device that provides

visual entertainment, subject to various exceptions. 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 or fourth forms 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 one year.

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

or other wireless telephone in a construction zone, except to report an emergency.

The prohibition does not apply to the use of a voice-operated or hands-free device

if the person does not use his or her hands to operate the device, except to activate

or deactivate a feature or function of the device. 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.