Lexington County drivers know not to text and drive.

But they may soon have to put down the phone completely.

Senate Bill 723, filed by Senator Tom Young of Aiken County, was heard in the Transportation Subcommittee Oct. 29.

This bill is aimed at prohibiting motorists from driving with a wireless device in their hands, and to make the punishment stricter if they’re caught doing so.

It will carry a $100 fine and a threshold for 2nd and subsequent offenses – up from South Carolina’s current $25 fine if convicted.

Last year, there were 19,381 documented collisions resulting in 65 fatalities and 7,939 injuries in SC as a direct result of distracted driving, according to the SCDPS.

Lexington County vehicle collisions killed 70 people last year.

AAA Carolinas was among 30 other interested parties that spoke on behalf the bill.

“This legislation is so important and we are happy to see that South Carolina legislators recognize that,” said Tiffany Wright, AAA Carolinas spokesperson. “This is a bill that motorists themselves are asking for – as more and more people are negatively affected by a distracted driver.”

The bill will be heard and voted on at a later date to pass to the full transportation committee.