Ban on texting and driving takes effect in Pa.


March 8, 2012 at 8:45a.m.

Ban on texting and driving takes effect in Pa.

HARRISBURG, Pa. (AP) — Chronic texters beware: There’s one more way for Pennsylvania to make you pay.

A ban on texting while driving is now in effect, carrying a $50 fine. The new law went into effect today.

The new law pertains to phones, computers or other devices that can send texts, emails or similar messages. Police are not allowed to seize the devices when they write tickets.

Law enforcement officials say the ban shouldn’t be too difficult to enforce. Lansdowne Police Chief Daniel Kortan Jr. says texting drivers frequently look away from the road and drift out of their lanes.