Twelve drivers were cited for hands-free cell phone violations, and 16 others were cited for dangerous driving behaviors. The operation ran from 5 p.m. to 11 p.m.

“Despite repeated efforts to warn drivers about the hands-free cell phone law, some drivers continue to use their phones while operating a vehicle,” Sergeant Matt Chavez said. “Our ultimate goal is to change behaviors that help make our roads safer.”

California has had distracted driving laws on the books since 2008. Under current law, drivers may not hold a phone or other electronic device while driving, including while talking, texting or using an app. Using a handheld cell phone while driving is punishable by a fine. A second violation of the hands-free law within 36 months of a prior conviction for the same offense adds a point to the driver’s record.

Anyone with an important phone call, or who needs to program directions, should pull over to a safe parking spot, the release said. Before driving, either silence the phone or put it somewhere you can’t reach.

A grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety, through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, funded the program.

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