One year after South Carolina’s hands-free driving law took effect, York County is among the state’s leaders in warnings issued to drivers caught using mobile devices behind the wheel.
Data released by the South Carolina Highway Patrol shows York County ranked among the counties with the highest number of warnings issued since enforcement of the law began earlier this year. Greenville, York, Horry and Spartanburg counties recorded the most warnings statewide.
State and local law enforcement agencies have issued 13,814 citations and 11,557 warnings since tickets for violations began being issued in February.
The hands-free law prohibits drivers from holding or using handheld mobile devices while operating a vehicle. Officers spent several months educating motorists before full enforcement began.
Law enforcement officials say the purpose of continued enforcement is to encourage drivers to change their behavior and reduce crashes caused by distracted driving.
Officials hope continued education and enforcement throughout York county will encourage motorists to keep their phones out of their hands and their attention focused on the road.
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