(Indianapolis, IN) - Using a cell phone in your hand while driving

is now illegal in Indiana.

The law went effect today.

State Representative Jim Pressel of Rolling Prairie drafted the legislation.

He says other states with such laws have seen a noticeable drop in

motor vehicle fatalities.

Pressel says fines ranging anywhere from $10 to $500 will be decided

by local jurisdictions.

He says cell phones can still be held while driving on calls placed to 911 or

after drivers pull to the side of the road to use them.