Newark Police Department Focuses on Distracted Driving Enforcement
During April, the Newark Police Department will have additional officers on patrol looking for drivers that are violating the state’s hands-free cell phone law.
Under the law, drivers are not allowed to hold a phone or electronic communications device while driving. This includes talking, texting or using an app.
“Distracted driving is a serious issue, but one that can be easily solved simply by putting the phone down,” Lieutenant Jolie Macias said. “That text, phone call, email or social media post can wait.”
Beginning July 1, 2021, a violation for using a handheld cellular phone or texting while driving will result in a fine and also add a point to the driver’s record for each violation occurring within 36 months of a prior conviction for the same offense.
Other distractions that increase the risk of a crash include eating, grooming, deep conversations with passengers, programming directions, adjusting the radio, taking off a jacket, reaching for an object on the floor or navigating a vehicle’s in-dash touchscreen.
If you have an important phone call or need to program directions, pull over to a safe parking spot. Before driving, either silence your phone or put it somewhere you can’t reach.
Funding for this program is provided by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
For more info: Sgt. Brian Simon 510.578.4995 [email protected]
