City of Irving bans use of cell phones in school zones

by PegNews wire

It's official: in an effort to protect kids from distracted drivers, the City of Irving has now banned the use of cell phones and other communication devices (including PDAs and pagers) in school zones during school hours.

Under the stated guidelines, motorists may not engage in calls by "talking, dialing or listening on a hand-held mobile telephone, and entering or reading text messages."

Those who disregard these provisions - and choose to ignore the signs posted in every school zone in the city - can now be charged with a Class C misdemeanor, which carries a maximum fine of $500.

Here's the provisional fine print: "Motorists will be able to talk legally on their cell phones if they use hands-free devices. Drivers also may use their cell phones in certain emergency situations including conversing with emergency response personnel, fire and police, and health care entities."

Seems reasonable.

posted by JM / Source: City of Irving