SB 1613 - CA Restrictions on Cellular Telephone Usage WHILE DRIVING

This new California State law imposes a prohibition on the use of a cellular phone when driving a motor vehicle unless the phone is designed and configured to allow hands-free listening and talking, and used in that manner. A number of exceptions to this prohibition include:

(1) Contacting a law enforcement agency or public safety entity for EMERGENCY PURPOSES;

(2) Calls by an EMERGENCY SERVICES PROFESSIONAL in an authorized emergency vehicle; and

(3) Certain digital two-way radios (Nextel?) when driving a commercial vehicle until July 1, 2011.

The fine for a first offense is $20 and for any subsequent offense is $50. Any infraction is not be considered a violation point for DMV purposes (i.e., it won't impact your auto insurance).

This law which adds California Vehicle Code sections 12810.3 and 23123 becomes effective on July 1, 2008.