Hands off the cell phone or pay the fine is expressed in a San Diego Union Tribune article [1] written by staff writer Pauline Repard. She presents the difference in rules for teens and adults and points out how ironic it is that legally adult drivers are not barred from sending text messages even though they are barred from talking on the phone while driving. Californians can kiss $97 per offense good-bye if they get caught not following the rules. It does seem odd that one can drive while eating a double-decker cheeseburger, drinking a milkshake, putting on make-up, shaving, disciplining kids in the back seat, and letting the dog sit in your lap. As long as you're obeying the rest of the rules of the road, you aren't stopped. It seems odd that this single aspect was chosen to enforce when the rationale was supposed to be paying total attention to the road.
Oh well, I guess I'm not privy to the logic of the state or federal government. But, I'm going to follow the law and not give another $97 to the state or to the local municipality.
And you?