The Pasadena Police Department will conduct the operation to enforce the state law that prohibits drivers from holding a phone or electronic communications device while operating a vehicle. Under current law, this includes talking, texting or using an app. Using a handheld cell phone while driving is punishable by a fine, and a second violation within 36 months of a prior conviction for the same offense results in a point being added to a driver’s record.
“A driver’s focus should be on the road, not their phone,” Commander William Grisafe said. “That text, phone call, email or social media post is not worth the risk to yourself and other people on the road.”
The department noted that if drivers have an important phone call or need to program directions, they should pull over to a safe parking spot. Before driving, motorists are advised to silence their phones or put them somewhere they cannot reach.
Funding for this program is provided by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
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