View VideoThe use of cell phones while driving in Irving active school zones is now prohibited to help provide additional safety to children.
The new guidelines, which will be enforced on school days during active school zone hours, will prevent motorists from engaging in calls by talking, dialing or listening on a hand-held mobile telephone, and entering or reading text messages.
This includes:
• Hand-held cell phones
• Personal digital assistants (PDA)
• Pagers
• Other electronic communications devices
The city has installed signs in every school zone to remind drivers of the new regulation.
“With the implementation of this new ordinance, drivers will have one less distraction to help them better focus on their speed and surroundings,” said Police Chief Larry Boyd. “This will help provide additional safety to children and others in school zones.”
Those who violate the ordinance could receive a Class C misdemeanor, which carries a maximum fine of up to $500.
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.
For more information, call the Police Department at (972) 721-2518.