Update: After three months of warnings, Shaker Heights police will begin issuing tickets today to folks using their cell phones while driving.
As we mention below, drivers caught using any kind of mobile device while operating a vehicle could face a first-degree misdemeanor charge, as well as a fine and jail time.
So, if you're heading out that way today, or to Beachwood, South Euclid, University Heights, or Pepper Pike, for that matter, do your phone fiddling ahead of time and put it away until you've parked.
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(Originally posted 03/26/2014)
Back in February, the Shaker Heights Council passed an ordinance banning the use of cell phones while driving. Today, that law goes into effect.
Folks caught texting, emailing, or fiddling with any kind of mobile device while driving through Shaker Heights can now be pulled over and slapped with a first-degree misdemeanor charge. At it's maximum penalty, that could mean a $1000 fine and six months behind bars. At it's minimum, it could mean a regular traffic citation and a fine similar to that of a speeding ticket.
Shaker Heights joins Beachwood, South Euclid, University Heights, and Pepper Pike in their treatment of driving while using a cell phone as a primary offense (state laws treat it as a secondary offense, except in the case of minors).
The Shakerite reports that although the law goes into effect today, drivers pulled over for this offense will only be issued a warning until May 25. After that, police will begin issuing tickets.
