Driver fined $20 for hitting bikers

A young driver in California has been fined $20 after knocking down two motorcyclists when trying to film them using his phone.

According to documents released by the California Highway Patrol, the Toyota Prius driver, aged 19, will be fined $20 for the offense of 'distracted driving' as he was recording video while driving his car on the highway.

As he focussed on recording dozens of motorcycles passing (members of local biker clubs) via his phone, the driver's control of the car became loose and he allegedly moved into an adjacent lane, then overcorrecting which resulted in him knocking down a motorcyclist.

The car driver then crashed into a four-foot high dividing wall after taking down a second motorcyclist from the same group of riders, before coming to a stop.

According to a number witnesses some of the motorcyclists proceeded to bash the young driver of the Toyota Prius. Investigators also later reported that witnesses saw the members of the biker clubs threatening the driver with a knife.

Initially there was a lot of coverage in the USA and now the story has gone global as the controversy rages on: should laws governing phone use while driving be stricter?

In some Australian states, mobile phone use while operating a vehicle - even when stationary at traffic lights - results in significant fine and three demerit points.

While the motorcyclists who were hit could have been seriously injured or killed, and were taken to hospital in ambulances, the driver will face a $20 fine according to Californian law.

The motorcycle riders who allegedly assaulted the driver of the car could be charged with battery, which carries with it a six month jail sentence and a fine of up to $2000 - if investigators can identify them.