Pasco Police plan to spend the next couple of weeks paying close attention to drivers who are distracted while behind the wheel.

In 2007, Washington became the first state to ban texting while driving. Ten years later, the ban was extended to include any use of a personal electronic device while behind the wheel of a car. Even holding a cell phone while driving is grounds for a citation.

"The object is to reduce collisions with an emphasis on violations of the wearing of seatbelts and distracted driving, such as the use of cell phones," said Sgt. Scott Warren with the Pasco Police Department.

Officers will use unmarked cars to monitor drivers at intersections with a high rate of accidents, such as the intersection of Court St. and 20th Avenue.

"These violations are traditionally harder to enforce with marked units at intersection," Warren said.

A first time offense for driving while holding or using a personal electronic device will cost you $136. That fine increases to $234 for a second offense, will be forwarded to the driver's insurance company, and will appear on the driver's permanent record.

 

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