Current print subscribers can create a free account by clicking here
Otherwise, follow the link below to join.
To Our Valued Readers –
Visitors to our website will be limited to five stories per month unless they opt to subscribe. The five stories do not include our exclusive content written by our journalists.
For $6.99, less than 20 cents a day, digital subscribers will receive unlimited access to YourValley.net, including exclusive content from our newsroom and access to our Daily Independent e-edition.
Our commitment to balanced, fair reporting and local coverage provides insight and perspective not found anywhere else.
Your financial commitment will help to preserve the kind of honest journalism produced by our reporters and editors. We trust you agree that independent journalism is an essential component of our democracy. Please click here to subscribe.
Need to set up your free e-Newspaper all-access account? click here.
Non-subscribers
Click here to see your options for becoming a subscriber.
Register to comment
Click here create a free account for posting comments.
Note that free accounts do not include access to premium content on this site.
I am anchor
Ordinance prohibits texting while driving
Posted
The Town Council has unanimously approved an ordinance in Town Code that prohibits texting while driving in Fountain Hills.
Mayor Linda Kavanagh asked staff to propose the ordinance.
“While there are many ways to be distracted while driving, texting seems to be the most egregious and dangerous practice,” Kavanagh said. “A statewide ban was proposed in the legislature several times but couldn’t get the votes needed to pass. That would have been the ideal situation but, as mayor, I must do everything I can to protect our residents here in town.
“I have witnessed and have heard from many people about drivers texting as their cars weaved all over the road. As we saw just recently, even using the sidewalk can put you in danger of an out-of-control vehicle.
“By passing this ordinance, my hope is to make our town just a little safer for residents and visitors whether driving, walking, running or biking. Let’s really care about sharing the road and that means being a responsible driver anytime you get behind the wheel.”
The ban only prohibits the use of portable electronic devices for written messaging and does not apply to voice call or use of “hands free” devices.
Certain exceptions also apply such as communication with emergency services, first responders and medical facilities.
The ordinance applies as primary offense, meaning a person can be stopped if law enforcement observes them engaged in texting. It does not need to be an offense observed in relation to another traffic stop.
The ordinance also applies while riding a bicycle that is in motion.
The law calls for a $100 fine for the first offense, plus court costs, $250 plus court costs for the second offense, and $500 plus court costs for any subsequent offense within a 24-month period.