State Patrol tackling texting while driving at high schools across state

MADISON (AP) -- The Wisconsin State Patrol is tackling texting while driving with a series of events at high schools around the state.

The patrol is teaming up with AAA and AT&T to hold the events this fall at high schools in various cities including La Crosse, Burlington, Racine, Madison, Eau Claire and Wausau.

Wisconsin state law prohibits all drivers from texting or emailing while operating a motor vehicle. It is a primary offense, which means police can stop drivers solely for texting or emailing. Fines are up to $400.

Wisconsin is one of 37 states with such a law.

The high school events will feature a distracted driver simulator meant to show the effects of texting while behind the wheel.