Cell phone violators lose driving privileges

  • Published
  • By 673d Security Forces Squadron
  • News release
JOINT BASE ELMENDORF-RICHARDSON, Alaska --  Base police will deem using a cell phone while driving without a hands-free device a "primary offense."

This means violators on Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson can be stopped solely for this offense.

Drivers should use voice dial or pull over to dial.

Violators will receive an Armed Forces Traffic Citation and a 30-day on-base driving suspension.

The prohibition of cell phone use while driving on military installations has been in effect since 2006 and in accordance with Department of Defense joint traffic regulations, vehicle operators on DoD installations and operators of government owned vehicles shall not use cell phones unless the vehicle is safely parked or unless they are using a hands-free device.

This regulation applies to anyone operating a vehicle on Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, regardless of military or civilian affiliation or type of vehicle.

This regulation was developed based on information from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, which determined that driving distractions are the leading cause of motor vehicle accidents.

The NHTSA has named cell phone use as the fastest growing and most visible distraction leading to accidents.

For more information or clarification of the traffic regulations, call the 673d Security Forces Squadron/Reports & Analysis Section at 552-4051/6576.