SANTA MONICA—On January 22, the city of Santa Monica posted on its website that the Santa Monica Police Department will be focused on the dangers of distracted driving for the month of February. The Police Department will conduct an enforcement operation focused on drivers suspected of violating the hands-free cell phone law.
Under current law, drivers are not allowed to hold a phone or electronic communications device while operating a vehicle. This includes talking, texting, or using an app. Using a handheld cell phone while driving is punishable by a fine. 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.
The SMPD noted that the person behind the wheel should focus on the road, not their cell phone. Anyone needing to take an important phone call or program directions, should pull over to a safe parking spot. Before driving, either silence the phone or put it somewhere where it cannot be reached.
Funding for the program is provided by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
