A new distracted driving law will take effect Sunday at 12:01 a.m.
The wording of the new legislation now includes holding, viewing, using or manipulating a cell phone while driving.
SGI spokesperson Kelley Brinkworth says one law that won’t change is that no drivers are allowed to use hand-held cell phones.
“If you’re an experienced driver you are allowed to use the hands-free setting on a cell phone,” said Brinkworth. “Provided that you can access it with just one touch of a button or using voice commands but it has to be hands-free.”
She added that if you are a new driver, someone whose in the graduated license program, you are banned from using cell phones altogether.
“It was also something that was recommended by law enforcement,” said Brinkworth.
“It helps to reinforce the message that really any use of a cell phone while you’re driving, whether you’re just holding it to check the time, or whether you’re calling or texting or changing music, any use at all is dangerous.”
The fine for distracted driving is $280 and four demerit points off your license.