The grace period for the new “hands-free” Pima County ordinance is over. The original ordinance went into effect on June 1st, with a 60-day window granted to drivers to get used to and prepare for the new law.
The window has closed.
Officials say they will ticket drivers using their cell phones without hands-free technology.
According to the ordinance, a hand-held device is defined as “a wireless communications device that is designed to engage in a call or receive and transmit text, image messages, or data.”
Examples of handheld electronic devices include:
• Mobile phones
• GPS units
• Gaming devices
• Mp3 players
The new ordinance means drivers may only make and receive phone calls using “hands-free” technology (without the utilization of either hand), such as Bluetooth, or systems that are integrated with the vehicle.
What will it cost you if you get caught? Pima County Sheriff’s Department (PCSO) says that anyone violating the ordinance will get a first offense ticket for $100. If you are involved in an accident and are using your cell phone, the fine is $250. If you use your cell phone at a stop light or when otherwise stopped in traffic, you can be ticketed.
Since June 1st, four citations have been issued, with 361 written warnings given and 386 verbal warnings. Why did Pima County pass this new law?
According to PCSO, Arizona is one of the few remaining states that does not have a law prohibiting distracted driving. Pima County took steps to ensure a “higher level of driver safety at the local level.”
The PCSO wants residents of Pima County to “engage in driving behaviors that are safe for them as well as for the other motorists and pedestrians on the road.”
We could not agree more.
Resource: PCSO Brochure
