California Law Bans Teen Cell Phone Use

Most people know we have a big problem with distracted drivers on the nation's roads. Nearly everyone is guilty at one time or another, so what is the solution?

Effective July 1, 2007, California has prohibited teenagers from using cell phones, PDAs, laptops and pagers while behind the wheel. Sixteen and seventeen year olds are those targeted by SB33, recently signed into law by Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger.

Fines of $20 for a first offense and $50 each subsequent infraction are relatively low. Traffic officers will not be stopping kids solely for phone use, say supporters of this legislation. Violations will not count against license points.

Calls to 911 will be exceptions.

California is the 16th state to pass similar legislation.

Eight percent of young drivers used a cell phone during daylight hours in 2004, according to a National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) study. The rate has been increasing, up from 5 percent in 2002 and 3 percent in 2000.

Car crashes are the leading cause of death among 16- to 20-year-olds.

A California statute already on the books, which mandates the use of hands-free devices for all drivers, takes effect July 1.

In my humble opinion, these laws are unenforceable with any uniformity, even in cop-heavy California. Enforcement will be spotty and subject to abuse by law enforcement.

Teens may be politically weak, and an easy target for the entering wedge of driver distraction laws, but they are a cohesive social force. Good luck ordering kids around when their behavior is not readily observed. At least until the universal artificial intelligence video monitors are installed everywhere. Maybe having your lips moving while driving will be a crime.

These rules will not save lives. Kids will soon learn to conduct their business in a low profile manner, and use the hands free devices discreetly.

The law of crimes is a very blunt instrument for motivating social change.

Law enforcement personnel have more important business than supervising teen drivers. I believe the focus should be on comprehensive driver training and stricter license standards.