DRIVERS who are not paying attention on the roads will risk being slapped with a $500 fine as part of a fresh crackdown.
And financial hits may not be the only consequence offenders might have to worry about.
Drivers will risk fines up to $500 under a new driving law[/caption]
Earlier this year, lawmakers proposed a bill designed to clamp down on those who show reckless behavior on the roads.
And, drivers who are found guilty of not paying attention face the full force of the law.
A law coming into force on November 1 will penalize those who fail to yield to motorbike users, as reported by the Fox affiliate KOKI-TV.
Those who cause a crash which leads to the victim suffering great bodily harm will be held responsible.
Penalties up to $500 could be dished out to offenders.
But, drivers found guilty of breaching the new rule could face additional penalties.
Offenders risk having to attend driving courses and they could see their license suspended.
And, they may have to fork out restitution costs, according to the law.
The law will impact drivers in Oklahoma.
The bill became law automatically after Governor Kevin Stitt refused to sign it – nine days after it was passed.
Not all bills in the state need a signature from the governor to become law.
Driving laws affecting states across the US have come into effect, or are set to come into force.
A law passed in Ohio impacts drivers between the ages of 18 and 20.
Drivers in that age category must have 50 hours of adult-supervised driving.
That 50 hours must include 10 hours of nighttime driving.
What defines ‘distracted driving’?
Distracted driving claims lives every year nationwide, and it’s 100% preventable
However, many drivers assume that distracted driving is limited to using their phone while behind the wheel.
While using a phone to text, call, send emails, scroll through or post to social media, and make or accept video calls is illegal nationwide, other behaviors can be just as distracting – and dangerous.
Other behaviors that distract drivers:
- Adjusting the radio or GPS
- Applying makeup in visor mirrors
- Eating and drinking, as it takes one or both hands from the wheel
- Reaching into the backseat to grab personal items
- Rummaging through a purse, glove box, or center console
Thankfully, driving distracted can be prevented. Here are some proven tactics to stay focused:
- Put your phone in “Do Not Disturb” or “Driving Mode,” as it temporarily pauses notifications, but will push a call or text through if urgent
- If distraction is difficult to avoid, put the phone in a safe place, like a purse, glove box, center console, or back seat
- If a text message or call needs to be sent or made, pull over and park
- Give the phone to a passenger when applicable to send a text or make a call
- Be a role model – practicing safe driving in front of impressionable passengers helps pass along safe behaviors
Source: National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, Connecticut Department of Transportation
Drivers between 18 and 20 must also complete 24 hours of education.
This can be done in a classroom or online, according to the new law.
They are also required to have eight hours of behind the wheel instruction.
Only a driving instructor can provide this training.
A hands-free law has come into force across South Carolina and drivers risk $100 fines if they are caught breaking the law.
The law revolves around where drivers have their cell phones.
It’s part of a bid to crack down on distracted driving.
Financial penalties might not be the only consequence (stock)[/caption]
