Illegal for Pedestrians to Look at Cellphones While Crossing the Street

Honolulu has become the first major city in the U.S. to make it illegal for pedestrians to look at their cellphones while crossing the street.

Mayor Kirk Caldwell says:
“Sometimes I wish there were laws we did not have to pass, that perhaps common sense would prevail, but sometimes we lack common sense… We hold the unfortunate distinction of being a major city with more pedestrians being hit in crosswalks, particularly our seniors, than almost any other city in the country.”

 Reuters reports that police must witness an offense to make an arrest, which can lead to fines of $15 to $35 for a first offense, $35 to $75 for a second offense, and $75 to $99 for a third offense.

Devices covered by the law include cellphones, tablets, laptops, and video game devices. Talking on the phone while crossing the street will still be allowed. Honolulu’s “distracted pedestrian” law takes effect on October 25.