RALEIGH — Starting Tuesday, North Carolina drivers who text behind the wheel will need to pull over to avoid fines.

Violations could cost drivers $100 in fines.

The new law makes it illegal to text or read any e-mail or text message while driving, and fines are higher for school bus drivers caught in the act.

But the law only applies to the driver while the vehicle is moving. Police officers and other safety officials are also exempt.

More than a dozen states ban texting while driving, and a South Carolina lawmaker has introduced similar legislation.