38 citations given on first day of cell phone ban
Issue date: 7/3/09 Section: News
Police officers gave out 38 citations July 1 for using their cell phones while driving. Honolulu’s new ban on the use of cell phones and other hand-held electronic devices while driving went in effect July 1.
“The majority are complying with the law,” Maj. Clayton Kau said.
According to Honolulu police, motorists have changed their calling habits or bought hands-free accessories to comply with the new law.
The Downtown Verizon Wireless store was packed with people, Wednesday at lunchtime, looking to buy Bluetooth devices to use.
Some motorists pull over before or soon after they used their phone and others just avoided making or taking calls on the road.
The new law mainly focuses on cell phone use, but also bans drivers from operating any hand-held electronic communication or entertainment devices while driving. However, hands-free devices are allowed, but hand-held phones, texting devices, laptops, video games and personal digital assistants all fall under the ban.
Citations are a $67 fine.
Due to the low citation numbers, Honolulu police are relieved that most residents are aware of the new law.
“The majority are complying with the law,” Maj. Clayton Kau said.
According to Honolulu police, motorists have changed their calling habits or bought hands-free accessories to comply with the new law.
The Downtown Verizon Wireless store was packed with people, Wednesday at lunchtime, looking to buy Bluetooth devices to use.
Some motorists pull over before or soon after they used their phone and others just avoided making or taking calls on the road.
The new law mainly focuses on cell phone use, but also bans drivers from operating any hand-held electronic communication or entertainment devices while driving. However, hands-free devices are allowed, but hand-held phones, texting devices, laptops, video games and personal digital assistants all fall under the ban.
Citations are a $67 fine.
Due to the low citation numbers, Honolulu police are relieved that most residents are aware of the new law.
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