In addition to conducting stepped-up high-visibility enforcement during April’s National Distracted Driving Awareness Month, county police departments will continue its year-round enforcement of Hawaii’s distracted driving law. Based on the 14,500 distracted driving citations police issued statewide last year, distracted driving continues to be a serious traffic safety priority.

“We are supporting NHTSA’s nationwide commitment to enforce cell phone and texting bans, and to reduce traffic crashes caused by distracted drivers,” Jade Butay, Hawaii Department of Transportation Director, said. “The ultimate goal of this effort is to prevent unnecessary injuries and deaths associated with using a cell phone while driving. These senseless crashes are preventable, and the focus should be on driving to ensure that everyone arrives alive.”

Hawaii’s law prohibits the use of mobile electronic devices while operating a motor vehicle, making it illegal for drivers to text or engage in other hand-held uses of mobile electronic devices such as cell phones, mp3 players, personal digital assistants, and navigation devices. The law also prohibits drivers from using a hand-held mobile electronic device when stopped at a red light or stop sign. Furthermore, no person under the age of 18 may use a hands-free mobile electronic device while operating a motor vehicle. The fine for violating this law starts at $297. Violations in school zones or construction areas are subject to a higher amount.

“We have learned that increased enforcement combined with public education have proven to be an effective method to reduce distracted driving and, more importantly, save lives,” Butay said.