CARIBOU, Maine — Since the state of Maine passed a law on Sept. 19 banning the use of handheld phones and devices while driving, Caribou Police have stopped 10 motorists in the area for violating the new rule.
Seven of the motorists were given written warnings, while three received citations, according to Laura Adams, administrative assistant for the Caribou Police Department.
Caribou Police Chief Michael Gahagan said distracted driving is a statewide and national issue, adding that cell phones are among the top distractions.
“Unfortunately,” he said, “we still see it and we’re hoping that people will conform with the new law so we can cut down on accidents.”
Gahagan said motorists caught using their phones while on the road will need to pay $85 for the first offense.
“We want to make people understand that even if you’re stopped in traffic, you still can’t text,” he said, “but you can pull off to the side of the road if you need to use your phone.”
According to a pamphlet issued by the Maine Bureau of Highway Safety, drivers can mount their phone as long as it doesn’t block their view of the road. In the event of an emergency, drivers are permitted to call law enforcement as long as they have a valid driver’s license and not a permit.
Gahagan agreed that mounting a phone or using bluetooth during calls will drastically reduce any distracted driving accidents.
“Hands free is the way to go,” he said.
