A NUMBER of states have introduced strict laws where drivers can face fines of up to $450 if their hands are in the wrong place. What’s more, even if the vehicle is temporarily stopped, such as at a red light or in traffic, the law still applies. Currently, there are 31 states, plus the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands, and the US Virgin Islands, where drivers are prohibited from using hand-held cell phones while driving. 

Across these states, law enforcement officers can generally ticket a driver for using a hand-held cell phone without any other traffic offense taking place. Some states, however, don't have a complete ban on hand-held devices, but may instead have restrictions for specific groups - like novice drivers or school bus drivers. 

What's more, most states ban texting while driving. 

The aforementioned 31 states are: 

• Alabama • Arizona • California • Colorado • Connecticut • Delaware • Georgia • Hawaii • Idaho • Illinois • Indiana • lowa • Maine • Maryland • Massachusetts • Michigan • Minnesota • Missouri • Nevada • New Hampshire • New Jersey • New York • Ohio • Oregon • Rhode Island • Tennessee • Vermont • Virginia • Washington • West Virginia