March 4, 2015 – NAZ Today covers the new Texting Ban that will be put into effect in Coconino County.
According to the Center for Disease Control, distracted drivers cause nearly 20 percent of car accidents every year. That’s why Coconino County passed a law last year to ban cellphone use while driving. At first officers only issued warnings, but now the law is in full effect. So if you’re using your phone while driving expect fines of at least 100 dollars when a county official catches you.
Sarah Lujan, NAZ Today Reporter says 10 percent of drivers under the age of 20 were involved in fatal car crashes due to distracted driving as of 2014. Those 5 seconds its takes to text a friend could lead to disasters for you and the people around you.
Gerry Blair, Coconino County Sheriff’s Office added that while a vehicle is in motions and you are driving, you can not talk on your phone nor can you text. The exclusion to this is if you have a hands free device, which you still can’t text but you can talk.
Lujan added that County officials says that many drivers are under the impression that if they are stopped at a stop light or sign that they are allowed to send a quick text; however, these drivers might be surprised if they find a county officer sees them.
Blair explained that if the vehicle’s engine is running or in motion then it is within the law to fine someone, but if you pull off to the side of the road that is alright. This law is only applicable in County lanes, but you are in City limits then City laws take president.
Post time: Jan-29-2017