By Gina Yarbrough
Escondido, CA–Escondido police cited 98 drivers during a distracted driving enforcement operation on August 28, including 32 motorists for violating California’s hands-free cell phone law.
Officers also cited drivers for speeding, failing to obey traffic signs and signals, and other violations that can increase the risk of crashes and endanger other road users. Three drivers were cited for driving without a valid license.
“Despite ongoing public education about California’s hands-free phone laws, some motorists continue to use their phones while driving,” Escondido Police Chief Ken Plunkett said. “Through continued enforcement and education, our goal is to promote safer driving behaviors, reduce distracted driving, and help protect everyone who travels on our roads.”
California has prohibited distracted driving for more than a decade, with distracted driving laws first taking effect in 2008. Under current law, motorists generally cannot hold or operate a cellphone or other electronic device while driving. Prohibited activities include talking, texting and using applications on a handheld device.
Violating the state’s hands-free law can result in a fine. A second conviction for the same offense within 36 months of a prior conviction also results in a point being added to the driver’s record.
Traffic safety officials advise motorists who need to make an important phone call or program navigation directions to pull over in a safe location before using their devices.
Drivers are also encouraged to silence their phones or place them somewhere they cannot easily reach before beginning a trip.
The enforcement operation was funded by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
