Drivers Who Use Cell Phone Fined
Police started ticketing people in this Cleveland suburb Wednesday for using hand-held cell phones while driving, a violation of a new law believed to be the first of its kind in the country.
Police had been issuing warnings rather than tickets since the ordinance’s passage in March.
But on Wednesday, police handed out several tickets during the day. Fines for the misdemeanor start at $3 for first-time offenders but can jump to $100 for a second offense or if the driver is involved in an accident.
“What we’re telling people is that if you’re going to give the gift of gab, get to the side of the road,” Mayor John M. Coyne said.
The new law prohibits use of a cell phone while driving unless both hands are on the steering wheel. Exceptions are made for emergency calls.
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