MORNING HEADLINES | South Carolina’s “ hands-free ” cell phone law took effect on Labor Day to discourage people from holding or touching cell phones while driving. The law is intended to discourage distracted driving, which has led to an increase in accidents.

“When you’re driving with your phone in your hand, you’re driving blind,” said Rep. Bill Taylor, R-Aiken, the bill’s sponsor. “It’s six times more deadly than drunk driving.”

Officers will issue warnings for the first six months to allow drivers time to adjust. But beginning in March, fines and points will apply:

First offense: $100 fine

Subsequent offenses: $200 fine and two points on the driver’s license

Drivers may still use their phones through Bluetooth, voice-to-text, or if the device is secured in a cradle or dashboa

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