WEST MEMPHIS, AR (abc24.com) - Put down the cell phone and keep your eyes on the road, that's the message Arkansas lawmakers are sending to drivers.
New legislation went into effect on October 1, 2011 that cracks down on distracted driving in school and work zones.
“That's why you got two hands, to use two hands," says West Memphis resident Lee Moses. "Two hands is better than one.”
Try telling that to the thousands of Arkansas drivers who keep one hand on the steering wheel, the other on the cell phone.
Lawmakers are taking aim at drivers, banning the use of cell phones in school zones where children are present. Proctor resident Jeremy Soto says it's about time.
“Too many people are distracted these days driving," Soto tells abc24.com, "trying to talk and eat, do all that stuff so I think it's good."
The state already has laws on the book to crack down on distracted driving. For instance, no one is allowed to text while driving, and if you're under the age of 18 you cannot use a cell phone while behind the wheel, even if you have a hands free device.
The law also bans cell phone use while driving in construction zones when workers are present.
Chief Mike Callender from the Crittenden County Sheriff Office says drivers won't have to fear a heavy-handed crackdown because the new legislation is a secondary law.
“It has to be an arrest made in conjunction with another traffic offense,” Callender says.
So, if a cop sees you yapping away while behind the wheel in a school zone, you won't be pulled over unless you're speeding or not wearing a seat belt.
First time offenders face a warning. After that, the fine is $50.
