In 19 days, cellphones in cars must be hands-free

Hands off those cellphones.

Two new California laws governing the use of cellular phones in motor vehicles go into effect July 1.

Senate Bill 1613 requires adults to employ a hands-free device when using a cellphone in a car.

Senate Bill 33 prohibits teens under 18 from using any wireless device, even with a hands-free add-on. That especially means no more texting behind the wheel.

Both laws were written to reduce distracted driving and to promote safer driving habits among the millions of licensed drivers throughout California.

Because young drivers are inexperienced and easily distracted, motor vehicle collisions have become the leading cause of death among 16- to 20-year-olds in the United States. Safety experts consider the new law for teenagers to be an important step in preventing the loss of life.

While adults can still use their cellphones while driving, they're required to use a hands-free device when making or receiving calls.

Guilty drivers must pay a fine: First offenses will result in a $20 fine, with a subsequent offense costing $50. With additional assessment the ultimate penalty could be more than triple the base fine amount, law enforcement officials say.

While no actual points will be assessed on DMV records, drivers should know that the infraction will still show on their driving record.

According to the California Highway Patrol, cellphone use is the leading cause of distracted driving collisions in California.

Exceptions to both rules will include emergency situations--calls to law enforcement, healthcare providers and the fire department--and operating a vehicle while on private property.

Neither law applies to passengers in cars. For details about new cellphone laws, please visit www.dmv.ca.gov/cellularphonelaws/index.htm.