EUGENE, Ore. -- January 2010 marked the beginning of Oregon's new hand-free law.

With some exceptions, the law states that drivers in Oregon may not use a cell phone without a hands-free device while operating a motor vehicle.

So far, Oregon State Police troopers have cited 41 people statewide for violating the law and warned 250 others.

Violation of the law is a primary offense, meaning that a police officer may stop a driver solely for that violation, with a minimum base fine of $142. Still, some drivers just aren't getting the message.

"It's like they are trying to hide it. I see women will have their hair covering their shoulders but they are talking to nobody in their cars," said Eugene resident Nikki Edwards.

"I always look out for cops when I talk on the phone but I don't have a blue tooth or anything yet," said Beaverton resident Jennifer West.

Troopers say that's just a small piece of who's been caught using a mobile communication device behind the wheel. They say law enforcement in cities and counties where traffic flows slower are likely spotting more violators.