Crime & Safety
Menifee Police To Conduct Distracted Driving Enforcement On Sept. 18
State law prohibits motorists from holding a phone or electronic communications device while operating a vehicle.
MENIFEE, CA — Menifee Police Department will conduct an operation looking for drivers in violation of the state's hands-free cell phone law on Sept. 18.
The operation will be conducted Friday from 6 a.m. to 2 p.m., police said.
"Holding your phone and using it while driving is not only dangerous, but also illegal," said Sgt. Dan Beare of the Menifee Police Department. "Before starting the car, silence your phone or put it in the glove box, trunk or back seat. Anywhere you can't reach."
State law prohibits motorists from holding a phone or electronic communications device while operating a vehicle. Talking, texting, or using an app on a device is not allowed.
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 can result in a point being added to a driver's record, police said.
Motorists were advised to pull over to a safe spot and park if they have an important phone call, text, email, or situation with other distractions.
Funding for the distracted driving enforcement operation is provided by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety, through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
