On January 3, 2026, the Orange County Sheriff’s Department will conduct an enforcement operation targeting drivers suspected of violating California’s hands-free cell phone law. The department announced that the effort is aimed at reducing distracted driving in San Juan Capistrano.
California law prohibits drivers from holding a phone or electronic communications device while operating a vehicle. This includes activities such as talking, texting, or using apps. Violators are subject to fines. Repeat offenses within a 36-month period may result in a point being added to the driver’s record.
Sergeant K. Ishii commented on the initiative: “A driver’s focus should be on the road, not their phone. That text, phone call, email or social media post is not worth the risk to yourself and other people on the road.”
The department advises drivers to pull over safely if they need to make an important call or program directions. They also recommend silencing phones or placing them out of reach before starting to drive.
