Motorists should be aware of several transportation laws that took effect at the start of this year and prepare for more that will take effect July 1, the San Diego County Sheriff's Department said Thursday.

The new laws effective Jan. 1 are:

• It is illegal to shield a licence plate with any border, case, device or spray so that a toll road device or red light camera cannot read it;

• Any bicycle used after dark must have lights, even on a sidewalk or bike path;

• It is illegal to smoke with a minor in the car, even when the vehicle is parked.

New laws that will take effect July. 1:

• Using a wireless telephones while driving is illegal. Drivers must use hands-free devices.

• It is illegal for drivers under 18 to use any wireless telephone and/or mobile service device while driving, even if it is hands-free.