Dozens Of Drivers Busted For Cell Phone Use In Beverly Hills Crackdown

BEVERLY HILLS, CA — Dozens of motorists were cited by police for using their cell phones while driving during a recent enforcement operations in Beverly Hills.

“Despite repeated efforts to warn drivers about the hands-free cell phone law, some drivers continue to use their phones while operating a vehicle,” Beverly Hills Police Chief Mark G. Stainbrook said in a statement. “Our ultimate goal is to change behaviors that help make our roads safer.”

On April 14 and 28, a total of 67 drivers were cited for violating laws that require hands-free cell phone use. Drivers are not allowed to hold their phones or other electronic devices while driving, including talking, texting or using an app, according to police.

Drivers who use a handheld cell phone while driving are subjected to a $162 fine, according to the California Highway Patrol. A second violation within 36 months of a prior conviction for the same offense results in a point being added to a driver’s record.

Funding for the Beverly Hills enforcement program was provided by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, police said.