COLUMBUS, Ind. (AP) — A law barring Indiana drivers from texting while driving has generated more frustration than tickets in its first three years.

The 2011 law prohibits drivers from using a phone or electronic device to send or read a text message or email while operating a moving vehicle.

Police tell The Republic it's difficult to enforce because the law doesn't prevent drivers from using cellphones to make calls, type in phone numbers or access other applications. It also doesn't allow officers to confiscate a phone to confirm the driver was texting or sending an email.

Indiana State Police Sgt. Noel Houze estimates that fewer than 400 motorists were ticketed for illegal texting in the first two years of the law.

Violations of the law carry penalties of up to $500.