Schwarzenegger signs ban on teen cell phone use while driving

Arnold Schwarzenegger isn't as much fun as a Governor as he was in The Terminator... just ask California's teen drivers. The former action movie star has signed a new bill -- which we told you about in August -- into law, making it illegal for anyone aged 16 or 17 to use a mobile phone, pager, laptop, or handheld computer while driving a vehicle. Effective July 1, 2008 (the same day that California's ban on non-hands-free mobile-use while driving takes effect), the state will begin to fine offenders $20 for their first incident, and $50 for each recurrent violation. The law is targeting teen drivers due to the wealth of statistics that demonstrate young motorists are more likely to end up in car accidents which result in death. According to reports, 13.6-percent of all fatal accidents are caused by teenagers, and studies show that car crashes are the leading cause of death for people between the ages of 16-19. "The simple fact is that teenage drivers are more easily distracted," said Schwarzenegger in a statement, adding, "We want to eliminate any extra distractions so they can focus on paying attention to the road and being good drivers." He then paused and remarked, "We just don't want to say 'Hasta la vista, baby' to young drivers anymore."

[(Unverified) Posted Sep 16th 2007 8:07AM]

Shouldn't the fine be higher if they want to be serious about the issue?

[PEZ Posted Sep 16th 2007 10:19AM]

The fine should be $50 for all violations. And, this should be adopted in ALL states. Stupid teens.

AHAHAHAH! AHAHAHAHA! AHAHAHAH!

[(Unverified) Posted Sep 16th 2007 12:03PM]

I think this law is way way over due and definitely a much needed step in the right direction. The amount of the fine for such a serious issue ($20 and $50) remains questionable, at least for me. I would increase the fine by $100 and $500 second time. The 3rd time I would revoke their driving privileges and since they're minors for the most part, I would also impose a penalty towards their parents as well, perhaps jail time. Like in a few states (PA, NJ), if a child has three unexcused absences from school, their parent(s) or legal guardians either serve jail time or pay a hefty fine. I think teens nowadays have it way too easy anyways.

[(Unverified) Posted Sep 16th 2007 3:25PM]

It hit me that he was Governor when I heard this on the news.... "Governor Schwarzenegger" it hit me extra hard.

[(Unverified) Posted Sep 16th 2007 3:48PM]

This is a good step to curb them now befor they get into serious problems when their adults.

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[(Unverified) Posted Sep 16th 2007 5:50PM]

Hmmm... seems to me that I not only see teenagers on phones but adults too. Car + Cell Phone = never a good idea, regardless of the age of the driver. I just think that a law such as this should be enforced over all ages, not just those who are between 16/17.

[(Unverified) Posted Sep 16th 2007 10:02PM]

fine should be to confiscate the phone with no retrieval, in addition to a $200.00 fine. Make it HURT when u get caught!!

[(Unverified) Posted Sep 17th 2007 1:29PM]

Only 16 and 17 year olds??? What when they turn 18 teens suddenly are better at multi-tasking behind the wheel? This should apply to ALL drivers and include those behind the wheel make-up artists, newspaper readers etc. When your behind the wheel watch the road