No use of handheld devices while driving in school zones

The Sheriff’s Office will be targeting motorists in school zones next week who are violating a law that went into effect in July banning motorists from using cell phones, tablets, laptops, two-way messaging devices, electronic games or any other electronic device used in handheld manner.

Section 316.305 of the Florida statutes allows law enforcement to stop motor vehicles and issue citations to motorists who are texting and driving. A person may not operate a motor vehicle while manually typing or entering multiple letters, numbers or symbols into a wireless communications device to text, email and instant message.

The same law prohibits the use of wireless communications devices in a handheld manner in a school and work zone.  A person may not operate a motor vehicle while using a wireless communications device in a handheld manner in a designated school crossing, school zone or active work zone area. Active work zone, as it pertains to Section 316.306, Florida Statutes, means that construction personnel are present or are operating equipment on the road or immediately adjacent to the work zone area.

The Sheriff’s Office Traffic Enforcement Unit — which conducts school safety zone enforcement on a daily basis — will be joining School Resource Officers and other Deputies in reminding and possibly citing motorists in school zones next week of the law.

For more information about the law go to: https://www.flhsmv.gov/safety-center/driving-safety/distracted-driving/

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