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Texting While Driving Law Takes Effect

Last updated on Friday, July 1, 2011

(UNDATED) - Indiana takes a step in lessening crashes on state roadways with a new law.

Reading or sending a text or email while driving a moving vehicle is an infraction, punishable by a maximum fine of $500.

Indiana State Police Sgt. Dave Bursten says it will be up to judges in each of Indiana's 92 counties to issue an appropriate fine.

Bursten says it could be anywhere from a couple bucks to the maximum, depending on the circumstance.

State Senator Travis Holdman authored the legislation and feels a big portion of drivers will stop the practice just because it's now illegal.

However, drivers do not have to tell an officer he/she was texting or hand over their phone.

Holdman says the law does not cover surfing the web or sending a Facebook message while driving, but he intends to wait a few years to see results and then may propose further legislation.

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