Nearly 300 Drivers Cited for Distracted Driving Since July

More than 280 motorists have been cited for distracted driving violations in West Virginia since a new law went into effect July 1.

The law makes using a handheld cellphone while driving a primary offense. It also bans texting while driving. Fines for both offenses are the same, $100 for a first offense and $200 for a second violation. Subsequent offenses carry $300 fines.

Beckley police Capt. Lonnie Christian says officers with the Governor's Highway Safety Program issued 286 citations and gave 108 warnings to motorists from July 1 to Nov. 30.

Christian says the law aims to ensure that drivers have their hands on the wheel and are concentrating on what's in front of them.