March 3, 2011 - 5:39pm
Michigan texting ban put into effect
BY ESHWAR THIRUNAVUKKARASU
Reading, writing, and sending text messages while operating a vehicle is now illegal for all Michigan motorists.
The statewide ban on texting, which was passed by Michigan lawmakers on January 26 and signed into law by Democratic Gov. Jennifer Granholm on April 30, went into effect Thursday. Vehicle operators caught texting — a primary offense that could warrant being pulled over or ticketed — will face a $100 fine for a first offense while repeat offenders will be fined $200.
The ban, which attempts to discourage drivers from texting while on the road, makes exceptions for motorists who text to report a medical emergency, traffic accident or criminal act among other situations.
Michigan is among 28 states to have prohibitive legislation on cell phone and text messaging use. Four of those states have elected to make texting a secondary offense while the other 24 follow primary enforcement.
