LANCASTER – Additional deputies will be on patrol this Friday, April 2, looking for drivers that are violating the state’s hands-free cell phone law, according to a news release from the Lancaster Sheriff’s Station.
“Under the law, drivers are not allowed to hold a phone or electronic communications device while driving. This includes talking, texting or using an app,” the news release states.
A driver cell phone violation is subject to a $157 fine for the first offense. Other distractions include eating, grooming, talking to passengers, using GPS, adjusting the radio, taking off a jacket, reaching for an object on the floor or navigating a vehicle’s in-dash touchscreen, sheriff’s officials said.
“Distracted driving is a serious issue, but one that can be easily solved simply by putting the phone down,” Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Sgt. Robert Hill said. “That text, phone call, email or social media post can wait.”
Motorists are encouraged to silence their phones or put them out of reach before driving. Motorists are also urged to pull over to a safe parking spot if they must answer an important phone call or need to to program directions, officials said.
Funding for the enforcement operation is provided by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
AV Resident says
The biggest perpetrators are those on cell phones. One sees them ‘all day long’. A fine , ten times 157 bucks for first offense, would be appropriate in my book.
That would slow things down.
Kidding...right? says
Nine times out of ten I see officers on personal phone calls or breaking traffic laws to hit a fast food restaurant, not because it is job related. We should start recording them to make a point, all we need to do is contact their non-emergency phone number and ask for their captain and tell her/him that we have a pic or video she/he should really view. Enough is enough.
No thanks says
Kidding…right? You go right ahead and fight this battle. I have other battles I’m fighting.
Your numbers are fake says
98.2% of the time, statistics you read in comment sections have been made up on the spot
Matt says
Lol.
Martin says
… don’t be caught scratching ‘n driving! Better not be picking your nose! Or, boss man’s going be pulling you over, write you a US$500 citation –
Laughing says
HAHAHA Good One
Ber says
Funny thing is the L.A sheriffs are the ones i see mostly on their cell phone while driving…..
It Can Wait says
I agree Ber.