No Fooling, City’s Cell Phone Ban Goes Into Effect April 1

Drivers — consider yourselves warned!

Starting April 1st, people using their cell phones while driving can be pulled over by police.

However, you have some time before getting a citation. There will be a 30 day grace period for people to get used to the new law.

“Change is always a hard thing to come by and once people get used to it, it just becomes habit, ” said Irene Alvarado, who has not only one, but two headsets for both of her cell phones. “I just stick it in there. If I’m in the car I can just pop it out.”

Even though, no citations will be given out until May El Paso Police officers will be pulling people over they see using cell phones the incorrect way.

“We will still be pulling people over for using their phones…it’s enough for probable cause, ” expalined El Paso Police Spokesman, Mike Baranyay.

Police will also be on the look out for those texting while driving.

Rosie vargas says she’s been using her blue-tooth device for a while, “I love using my blue tooth it’s very useful.”

She recommends hands free devices to everyone, even when you’re not driving.

“Even in the house, I have my hands free, I’m on the phone,” she said. “I can be on the phone for the longest time.”

But if you’re not comfortable with something in your ear you can use a speaker phone or any other hands-free device.

For example, some cars offer technology to have your cell phone connected to your car’s speakers.

“I think most importantly is making it a habit, ” said Alvarado.

A habit we’re all going to have to get used to.