Law Will Ban Teen Drivers From Talking On Cell Phones
Posted at: 10/28/2012 4:35 PM
| Updated at: 10/28/2012 10:42 PM
By: Laurie Stribling
A new law in Wisconsin will ban many teen drivers from talking on their cell phones while driving. The law will take effect November 1 and will prohibit motorists with a probationary license from using a cell phone.
Wisconsin State Trooper Troy Stage said the law even bans hands-free devices. Stage said cell phone use via a headset is still distracting for drivers.
"Distracted driving is one of those situations where we are loosing a lot of people and loosing a lot of productive citizens due to injuries and limitations caused by distracted driving," Stage said.
Stage said 11 percent of teen drivers who were in a fatal accident were distracted; he hopes this law change will saves more lives. Teen driver Jeremy Oaks said he thinks the law is a good idea and he already obeys it.
"I need to be focused where I'm driving," Oaks said. "Some people say they can multi task while they drive. I know I cant. I've seen a lot of people who have almost a hit other people while using their phones, so I tend to stay away from it."
Minnesota teens with provisional licenses who travel to Wisconsin will also have to obey the law. Stage said drivers with provisional licenses are typically between the ages of 16 and 19.
First-time offenders will get a ticket ranging between $20 and $40 dollars. If caught a second time in the same year, the rate jumps between $50 and $100.
While the law will apply to many teens, other people are affected like drivers from other countries or new state residents under the age of 21.
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