California's traffic laws are under a continuous state of development as the courts and law enforcement agencies attempt to keep up with evolving technology. This includes the use of mobile technology, one of the biggest concerns for drivers of all ages. This debate persists to rage around the country and California remains one of the flagship states for heavy penalties being directed at all drivers that receive cell phone tickets. Here is a look at some of the current laws for the use of mobile technology while driving a vehicle as well as the repercussions that a driver can anticipate if they do not fight their cell phone tickets.
The laws regarding mobile devices continue to change every single year. Over five years ago when these laws first came into fruition, they were only intended to put a halt to drivers that were talking on their cell phone without the use of a hands-free device. This encompassed checking and sending verbal messages. As technology has continued to advanced, so have the various laws surrounding these mobile devices.
Currently, nearly any use of a mobile technology that is not carried out with a hands-free device can result in a ticket if a driver is pulled over. This includes all gaming devices, smartphones, and tablet PCs. These laws also cover more than just making calls on these pieces of technology as well. Texting, surfing the internet, or whatever other use of a mobile device that distracts the driver can end in a ticket.
The base fines and fees for these tickets can be misleading for those that have never received a driving infraction before. Within many counties, the preliminary fine for a cell phone ticket is listed as $50 or less. This appears like an affordable sum, especially for a ticket that will not put points on the driver's license. Unfortunately, these charges are only the beginning when it comes to the overall cost of a cell phone ticket.
Each county and courthouse is allowed to place additional charges in order to cover their expenses associated with filing and processing traffic tickets. This could include anything from the processing of paperwork to payments for the notary and guards. Local law enforcement agencies can also attach additional charges for their own paperwork that must be turned in. These fees could push the ending costs of a cell phone ticket well past $150 or more. Each successive charge could also double or triple the overall costs of a single ticket.
The moment that a driver gets any ticket while behind the wheel, they should contact a local traffic ticket attorney immediately. These specialists provide drivers with the best chance at avoiding these costly penalties and protecting their finances.
Author Resource:
Amir Soleimanian, traffic ticket lawyer provides legal assistance for various types of traffic ticket, including speeding ticket, red light ticket, cell phone tickets , misdemeanors and other types of traffic charges.