On Tuesday, a new law went into effect making it illegal to talk on a cell phone while driving without the use of hands-free device. In the first 24 hours after the law was enacted, local authorities in San Benito County wrote three tickets to people violating the new law, according to records from the San Benito County Superior Court.
Despite the three tickets, California Highway Patrol spokesman Chris Armstrong said he was surprised by the relatively few number of violations he's seen.
"We've been very impressed so far by the level of compliance with the new law," Armstrong said. "There has been a lot of advertisement for the new law and it seems people have not been surprised by it."
The law, which took effect July 1, makes it illegal to text or talk on a wireless phone without the use of hands-free technology such as a Bluetooth set.
The law also states that drivers under age 18 may not use a wireless phone while driving under any circumstance.
Police can stop drivers for the cell phone infraction alone, and a ticket would cost $20 for the first offense and $50 for additional offenses.
Curtis Cartier Curtis Cartier covers the City of Hollister and public safety for the Free Lance. Reach him at (831) 637-5566 or email him.
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