The Bee Cave City Council members passed Ordinance #241 to prohibit the use of hand-held mobile communication devices while operating a motor vehicle or bicycle, effective July 1st, 2015.
Such uses include:
- Engaging in a call
- Sending, reading, or writing a text message
- Viewing pictures or written text
- Gaming or using apps
- Engaging in any other use of the device
- Engaging in a call means dialing, talking, or listening on a hand-held mobile communication device but does not include holding the device to activate or deactivate it.
Chief Gary Miller from the Bee Cave Police Department states, "Anything that takes your hands off the wheel, your eyes off the road, or your mind off the task of driving is dangerous to you and other vehicles on the road. Recent accident statistics indicate 95,000 crashes a year in Texas list distracted driving as a factor. And young inexperienced drivers, because of their inexperience, are at a higher risk for accidents if they are distracted. There are no text messages or phone calls more important than your safety. So have a talk with your family and help save a life. Wearing seat belts for most people is now second nature and hands free will become second nature if you set the example."
The ordinance will not apply to drivers and bicyclists using hands-free technology, such as Bluetooth and mounted devices, or operating an authorized emergency vehicle in an official capacity.
In addition, drivers and bicyclists will not be prosecuted if they are:
- Legally parked or who are operating a motor vehicle or bicycle on private property. Drivers stopped at a stoplight are still prohibited from using hand-held devices
- Using a hands-free mobile telephone
- Communicating with an emergency response operator, fire department, law enforcement agency, hospital, physician's office, or health clinic regarding a medical or emergency situation
- Reporting an illegal activity or summoning emergency help.
If convicted of a first offense, a driver or bicyclist shall be fined not more than $100. Additional convictions carry fines of up to $500.