Thirteen drivers were cited for hands-free cell phone violations during two distracted driving enforcement operations in Torrance, police announced Saturday.
“Despite repeated efforts to warn drivers about the hands-free cell phone law, some drivers continue to use their phones while operating a vehicle,” Sgt. David Koenig of the Torrance Police Department said. “Our ultimate goal is to change behaviors that help make our roads safer.”
California has had distracted driving laws on the books since 2008. Under current law, drivers are not allowed to hold their phone or other electronic device while driving. This includes talking, texting or using an app.
The Torrance operations enforcement took place on Wednesday and Thursday.
Using a handheld cell phone while driving is punishable by a fine, according to Lt. Charles Fisher of the Torrance Police Department said. Violating the hands-free law for a second time within 36 months of a prior conviction for the same offense will result in a point being added to a driver’s record.
Funding for this program was provided by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.