July 1: No Cell Phone Laws Go Into Effect For Indiana Teens

A new bill passed by Indiana lawmakers will make it illegal for teens under the age of 18 to text, talk on the phone, or snap cell pics while driving. The law, which goes into effect on Wednesday, July 1, will hopefully cut down on teen driver distractions and reduce the number of Indiana teen car accidents, teen accident injuries, an teen accident fatalities. Teen caught using a cell phone while driving could face up to $500 in fines.

Some worry that the law will be difficult to enforce - police officers will have to both catch the teen texting or talking and confirm the teen's age before issuing a citation. Others cite recent studies that show texting and cell phone use is extremely dangerous for drivers, especially teens who are new to the roads.  

In the last few years, a number of states have banned talking on the cell phone and texting with mobile devices while driver - both for teens and for all drivers.