The rising number of accidents caused by using mobile phones while driving plus several studies claiming teenagers as the most distracted drivers paved the way for the state Assembly to garner a 62-5 vote in favor of prohibiting teenagers under 18 to use any cellphones (even hands-free), pagers, and laptop while driving.

Once this legislation is finalized, it will take effect on July 1, 2008 and with $20 penalty for first time violators and $50 for succeeding offenses.

According to Los Angeles Times, distractions while driving claims 17 deaths per day. Moreover, the teenagers represent 6% of licensed drivers but 16% of auto accident fatalities.

"Year after year, car crashes are the No. 1 cause of death among teenagers. The young drivers who are using cellphones, pagers and PDAs while driving are putting not only themselves at risk, but all of us as well," said legislation author Sen. Joe Simitian.

While I agree with this potentially life-saving legislation, I find the punishment too soft to instill a sense of responsibility among teenagers. It says that violations will not be reflected in driving records. All you have to do is pay the fine and go away.