New Signs in Texas School Zones About Cell Phone Use

By
Real Estate Broker/Owner Texas License #590301

 

While driving from North East Texas to the North Dallas Metroplex area last week, I noticed some new signs have been posted near SCHOOL ZONES because of the recent bill passed to prohibit the use of a hand held mobile phone device while driving. 

In many parts of Texas, this type of ruling has already been in place and not just in the school zones.  As real estate agents, we know the beauty of being able to multi-task.  Drive, talk, record, listen...etc.  Just remember to watch for those SCHOOL ZONES if you're not using a hands free device. 

Guess we all need to have Blue Tooth headsets glued to our ears.  That's certainly better than breaking the law.  And maybe a whole lot easier than having to remember just where you are and whether holding your phone to your ear is breaking the law!

The signs are part of Texas House Bill 55  http://www.legis.state.tx.us/tlodocs/81R/billtext/pdf/HB00055F.pdf that prohibits the use of a hand held wireless communication device within a school crossing zone.  This rule does not apply if the vehicle is stopped, or is being used in a hands-free mode.  Violators can be subject to a fine of up to $200. The law exempts use of a wireless device to make an emergency call, such as dialing 9-1-1.

All said, I think it's a great law and holding a cell phone while driving should be prohibited everywhere!

Comments (4)

Dave Roberts
Healdsburg Sotheby's International Realty - Healdsburg, CA

I got a ticket in northern California for talking on the cell phone while driving. Once is enough. As much as I like to stay in touch, if I really need to talk to someone I just pull over. All the studies I've seen say that it's not the hands free vs. blue tooth that matters. It's the fact of having your concentration away from the road.

Jan 22, 2010 10:27 AM
Barbara Birinyi
Quitman, TX
TX Real Estate Broker - Horse Property Specialist

Good point Dave.  Concentration is key.  I'll admit that I'm addicted to being able to accomplish several things at one time.  I'll also admit that in bad weather or heavy traffic, I concentrate completely on just the driving.

Jan 23, 2010 03:48 AM
Sue Neff
Tennessee Real Properties - Jamestown, TN
Principal Broker, Jamestown, TN

Hope it takes hold eveywhere. It's almost as bad as driving drunk.  What kills me are the babes with the phone in one ear, a cigarette in their mouth and a dog in their lap.

Jan 23, 2010 08:21 AM
Barbara Birinyi
Quitman, TX
TX Real Estate Broker - Horse Property Specialist

Sue,  That's funny.  I agree,  no dogs on laps...and certainly, cigarettes should be outlawed (in general)!  And why do young women think that kind of behavior is glamorous?

Jan 28, 2010 02:24 AM