Cell phone-driving crackdown starts Sunday

Texters and hand-held cell phoners may experience an unpleasant surprise next week if they continue using their gizmos while driving, cycling, or even skateboarding.

That's because on Sunday, Philadelphia police will begin enforcing an ordinance that bans the use of hand-held phones while driving, said police spokesman Lt. Frank Vanore.

"We're going to do a heavy month of education where you're going to see . . . warnings going out," Vanore, said.

Those warnings will be issued through November, he said. Then, on Dec. 1, police will begin issuing code violations that will carry a $75 fine.

Bluetooth users and people who answer phones with built-in car systems are in the clear, Vanore said.

"As long as you're not holding a phone up to your ear, you're OK," he said.

City Councilmen Bill Green, William Greenlee, and Frank Rizzo sponsored the bill, which was approved by Council unanimously in April.

"I'm excited to see its implementation," said Green, adding: "I've lived in places where there were cell bans and places where there were not, and in my personal experience there are far fewer close calls when everybody has to keep their eyes on the road."

In December, police will issue code violations - instead of traffic tickets - to drivers caught using handheld phones, Vanore said.

"You're still going to receive a ticket, but not a traffic ticket," he said. "It's like when you don't shovel a driveway or let your grass grow too long."

They'll still cost you, though.

Fines will be $75 for those who pay off the violation in 10 days, Vanore said. They'll increase to $150-$300 for those who delay paying.

Philadelphia will join other local governments that have tackled the issue of driving and cellphone use.

For example, Hilltown Township in Bucks County enacted a similar ordinance in 1999.

However, Rick Kirkpatrick, a spokesman for the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation, said it was struck down by Bucks Common Pleas Court in July 2000.