38 Ticketed In Cell Phone Driving Crackdown: Petaluma PD

PETALUMA, CA — Petaluma police cited 38 drivers Tuesday during a distracted-driving enforcement operation, including 16 motorists accused of violating California’s hands-free cellphone law.

The Petaluma Police Department conducted the enforcement operation Aug. 11 as officers targeted drivers using handheld phones and committing other traffic violations.

“Despite repeated efforts to warn drivers about the hands-free cell phone law, some drivers continue to use their phones while operating a vehicle,” Officer Nathan Good said. “Our ultimate goal is to change behaviors that help make our roads safer.”

California has enforced distracted-driving laws since 2008. Current law prohibits drivers from holding a cellphone or other electronic device while driving, including while talking, texting, or using an app.

Drivers cited for using a handheld cellphone face a fine. A second hands-free violation within 36 months of a previous conviction for the same offense also adds a point to the driver’s record.