CHP: No Grace Period For Cell Phone Law


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(Sacramento, CA)
Friday, May 16, 2008
Tom Marshall says he’s never received so many calls about a new law: “I’ve been at the CHP for 7 years now and this is the most public reaction we’ve gotten to any issue since I’ve been here.” Starting July 1st, it’ll be against the law to drive while using a hand-held phone. That means to talk, you’ll need to use a hands-free device. Marshall says the CHP has been working to get the word out – and they’re ready to hand out tickets that day. “yes, it’s a primary offense. If they see you on a hand-held cell phone, they can pull you over, just for that offense.” Also July first, a law goes into effect prohibiting those under 18 from using a phone at all while driving. Marshall notes both laws go into effect at a busy time for the CHP – the July fourth holiday weekend, when there will be extra officers on the road. The first ticket is twenty dollars. After that, it’s fifty bucks. But the CHP’s Tom Marshall notes local governments can tack on their own fees, too.