The Westminster Police Department is conducting an enforcement operation targeting drivers suspected of violating the hands-free cell phone law throughout the City today, on November 18, 2025.
Remember, a driver’s primary focus should be on the road, not their phone. No text, phone call, email, or social media post is worth risking your safety or the safety of others on the road.
Distractions Banned While Driving in California
- Holding or touching a phone for any reason while operating a vehicle, even when stopped at a red light or in traffic.
- Texting, typing, scrolling, or reading messages on a phone.
- Watching or recording videos, livestreams, or video calls (e.g., FaceTime).
- Using apps or browsing the internet while driving.
- Interacting excessively with dashboard touchscreens or infotainment systems in a way that takes attention off the road.
- Eating, grooming, or other activities that reduce attentiveness (added under expanded distracted driving rules).
- Drivers under 18: Total ban on any electronic device use, even hands-free.
- Commercial drivers: Held to stricter standards; violations can affect licenses and employment.
- Exceptions: Emergency calls to law enforcement or emergency services; emergency personnel on duty.
Penalties
- First offense: Base fine starts at $20 (older law) but under 2025 updates, practical fines often start around $200 after fees.
- Second offense: $50 base fine (older law) but can escalate to $250 or more with added fees.
- Repeat violations: Higher fines, possible license points, increased insurance premiums, and for persistent offenders, license suspension.
- Commercial drivers: Risk of commercial license suspension and employer liability.
- Court impact: Violations can be used as evidence in accident claims under comparative negligence rules.