Motorists in Ireland will face a fine from next month if caught texting on their mobile phones and using mobiles while driving, according to a new legislation.

State broadcaster RTE quoted on Sunday the new legislation, which will come into effect on May 1, as saying that anyone caught texting or accessing information on mobile phones will be given a mandatory courts summons and a fine.

A convicted driver will face a maximum fine of 1,000 euros (1,384 U.S. dollars) for a first offense and a fine of up to 2,000 euros for a second offense. If caught three times or more within a 12 month period, motorists will face a fine of up to 2,000 euros and a possible jail term of up to three months.

According to the Road Safety Authority of Ireland, "distracted driving" is probably a contributory factor in 20 percent to 30 percent of all collisions that happen on Irish public roads.