Beginning on July 1 a driver could be fine up to $200 for holding or supporting your cell phone with your body.
State legislators passed a law making it illegal to hold your cell phone while driving.
With the new law, hands-free devices, like earpieces and headphones, are allowed. This allows drivers to answer calls without lifting a finger. Some cars allow you to connect your phone to your car speakers so you can keep your eyes on the road.
The first time police see you holding your phone while driving will be a $50 fine. If the use of your phone results in a wreck, the fine jumps to $100. If you are holding your phone in a work or school zone when warning flashers are on, it will be a $200 fine.
The hope is that the new law cuts down on wrecks and keeps roads safer.
Tennessee is the 19th state to ban cell phone use while driving. The only exceptions are law enforcement, first responders and other utility workers in emergency situations.