02-03-10

Cell Phone Ordinance

On March 1, 2010, the Harrisburg Police Department will begin to enforce Ordinance 17-2009 entitled "Prohibition of Use of Interactive Wireless Communications Devices While Operating a Motor Vehicle."

Prohibited Behavior
No person shall operate a motor vehicle on any street or highway within the city of Harrisburg, while engaging in any conduct defined as the "use" of an interactive wireless communication device unless the operator maintains both hands on the applicable steering device.

Exceptions
(a) Law enforcement officers or operators of emergency vehicles, when on duty and acting within their official capacities.
(b) Persons using an interactive wireless communication device for voice communication to call "911" in an emergency, or to report a traffic accident or unsafe driving by another motorist.
(c) Persons using a hands-free device for voice communication, provided that such person does not touch the mobile telephone or wireless communication device connected to such hands-free device while operating or using the vehicle.
(d) Persons using an interactive wireless communication device while maintaining a motor vehicle in a stationary position in a parking lane or space out of moving traffic lanes, and not in gear.
(e) Persons using an interactive wireless communication device while maintaining the vehicle in the park position, either on public or private property.
(f) Persons using on-board communication device for non-personal communication in the course of ordinary business in their employment with a City, State or Federal agency or authority.

Penalties
The penalties for a violation goes as follows: First offense $100, Second offense $250, Third offense $500, Fourth offense and any subsequent offense or a violation that results in an automobile accident, bodily harm, or damage to property, a fine of $1000 shall apply. Additionally, fines are doubled for violations occurring in a designated active work zone or school zone.