South OC Times

The Orange County Sheriff’s Department has announced an enforcement operation in San Clemente aimed at drivers who violate the hands-free cell phone law. The operation is scheduled for August 18, 2025.

Current California law prohibits drivers from holding a phone or electronic communication device while operating a vehicle. This includes activities such as talking, texting, or using applications. Offenders face fines, and repeat violations within 36 months can result in a point being added to the driver’s record.

Sergeant K. Ishii of the Orange County Sheriff’s Department stated, “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.”

Drivers are encouraged to pull over safely if they need to make calls or program directions. The department also advises silencing phones or placing them out of reach before driving.