To help provide additional safety to children, the use of cell phones while driving in active Irving school zones is prohibited. The guidelines for the ban, which are enforced on school days during active school zone hours, 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 (PDAs)
- Pagers
- Other electronic communications devices
“We take the safety of children very seriously in the City of Irving,” said Police Chief Larry Boyd. “The cell phone ban, combined with reduced speed limits and help from crossing guards, help maximize the level of safety of children and others in school zones.”
Signs are posted in every school zone to remind drivers of the regulation. Those who violate the ordinance could receive a Class C misdemeanor, which carries a maximum fine of up to $500. Motorists are 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.
Posted Aug. 5