SAN ANTONIO -- Drivers passing through nearly 20 school zones in San Antonio will soon have to stop talking on their cell phones -- or at least get a hands-free device.
San Antonio joined several other cities around the country last night in cracking down on cell phone use by motorists near schools. The City Council passed an ordinance for a one-year pilot program banning the use of cell phones in 18 schools zones that have had a high number of speeding violations.
Drivers also won't be allowed to send or read text messages while in the zones during the school day.
But the program has several exceptions. Driving and talking using hands-free devices is allowed; so is calling 911, the fire department, police or a doctor's office or clinic in an emergency. Finally, it's OK for parents waiting in so-called "car lines" to call their children to say they've arrived at the school for pick up.
Violators will face a fine of up to $200 after a 60-day grace period beginning September 1st.
