Nevada Bans Texting, Handheld Conversations While Driving

Nevada became the 34th state to ban texting while driving and the ninth to ban talking on handheld cell phones while driving.

Gov. Brian Sandoval (R) signed the distracted driver legislation Friday and the bans take effect Jan. 1. After that date, phone conversations will only be allowed via hands-free devices.

Although the ban does not take effect until next year, it allows police officers to begin issuing warning citations in October.

Once the texting-talking bans are enforced, violators face a $50 fine for the first offense, $100 for the second and $250 for the third.

Drivers ticketed more than three times for violating the bans could have their driver’s licenses revoked for six months.

The new law does not apply to emergency personnel, such as police officers and firefighters who are on duty.