Starting December 1st, texting while driving will cost you.

Governor Beverly Perdue signed into law a bill that bans all drivers from text messaging or sending
e-mails with their cell phones while operating a motor vehicle.

According to the National Governors Highway Safety Association, which represents state highway safety agencies, thirteen states and the District of Columbia currently prohibit text messaging by drivers, which nearly doubles the number just four months ago.

Supporters of the legislation say texting drivers are a hazard on the road by looking down to type or keeping an unstable hold on the steering wheel while typing.

Under the new law, drivers will have to either pull over or wait until they have stopped their vehicle before they could text or e-mail. Violators could face a $100 fine plus court costs.