Drivers in California prohibited from using cell phones

LOS ANGELES, July 1 (Xinhua) -- A law restricting cell phone use while driving went into effect in California on Tuesday.

The law calls for a base fine of 20 dollars for the first offense and 50 dollars for a second conviction.

Traffic-safety authorities said they hope the law would put an end to a practice long frowned upon.

Drivers 18 and older still will be allowed to use hands-free equipment to operate their cell phones, but drivers under 18 will be prohibited from using any type of phone while behind the wheel.

"Today is the day to invest in a hands-free device for your cell phone. Or, here's an even cheaper method: Don't answer your cell phone while you're driving. That's what voice mail is for," said Los Angeles City Councilwoman Jan Perry.

"This will mark new protections for drivers, not only drivers, but their passengers and anybody who's on the road," added Senator Gloria Romero.

Drivers who use phones are four times more likely to get involved in an injury traffic crash than motorists who do not, according to a study by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.

Department of Transportation officials recommended that drivers avoid emotional conversations that could lead them to lose focus while talking.