If you drive and text it will cost you

Valley law enforcement agencies and the California Highway Patrol are planning a second campaign to bust distracted drivers April 18-19.

During the last enforcement period earlier this month, more than 1,000 Central Valley motorists were cited for talking on a cell phone or texting while driving. The penalty is a $159 ticket. (Read article: CHP: 1,003 ticketed for driving, cell phone use)

If you are stopped for a violation, you will be cited," said Chief Jim Abrames of the CHP Central Division, in a statement.

The enforcement effort is part of April's "Distracted Drivers Awareness Month," and from the Grapevine in Kern County to Modesto, enforcement agencies have issued more than 1,700 citations this month.

The initial fine of $159 for a "driving while distracted" citation can reach up to $279 for subsequent offenses.