More than 200 new laws take effect in Oklahoma

Oklahoma authorities today can begin towing cars of any drivers stopped for traffic violations who don't have insurance or who have been barred from driving.

House Bill 2331, which allows law enforcement officers to seize uninsured cars or vehicles of unlicensed drivers, is among slightly more than 200 new laws going into effect today.

The law requires officers verify compliance with the compulsory insurance law through an online program for all traffic stops. A driver cannot be stopped under the law for the sole purpose of checking for insurance.

A few other traffic-related laws taking effect include allowing motorcyclists and bicyclists to go through red lights in some instances and a ban on using hand-held electronic devices while driving with a learner's permit or a graduated driver's license.

If a driver on a learner's permit or graduated license is talking on a cell phone, text messaging or in any way engaged in using a hand-held device, officers can issue a citation.

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