Texting while driving officially outlawed in California

Starting from January 2009, texting while driving will be considered as an illegal action. Those that do it despite the new regulation face a $20 fine the first time and a $50 for each recurring violation.

“Banning electronic text messaging while driving will keep drivers’ hands on the wheel and their eyes on the road, making our roadways a safer place for all Californians,” said Schwarzenegger.

Everything regarding SMS is prohibited while driving — including sending, reading and writing text messages. You’ll have to get yourself a Bluetooth headset/car-kit in order to do some mobile work while driving. We did suggest this even before this regulation, though.

[Via: CrunchGear]